The Tampa Bay Times reports that efforts to repair the hurricane-damaged Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, have stalled, casting doubt on the future of the Tampa Bay Rays franchise in the city.

The 35-year-old stadium, which suffered significant damage during Hurricane Milton, was initially slated to receive $24 million in funding for repairs. However, a last-minute reversal has left the stadium’s fate uncertain, compounded by the separate issue of the franchise’s $1.3 billion new home, which also hangs in the balance.

During Hurricane Milton, Tropicana Field lost 18 of its 24 fiberglass roof panels after the 370,000 square feet of PTFE roof system failed under winds exceeding 125 mph. The cost of repairs was previously estimated at $55.7 million.

The hurricanes this fall have not only damaged the stadium but also contributed to a decline in construction spending for October. This further complicates efforts to secure the necessary repairs and funding for Tropicana Field.

As the city and the team grapple with these challenges, the future of the Rays’ home stadium remains in limbo. The uncertainty surrounding both the repairs to Tropicana Field and the potential construction of a new stadium adds to the growing concerns about the team’s long-term presence in St. Petersburg.

With significant financial and logistical hurdles to overcome, the path forward for Tropicana Field—and the Tampa Bay Rays—remains unclear. City officials, team leadership, and fans alike are left hoping for a resolution that will secure the future of the beloved franchise in the heart of Tampa Bay.

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(Image credit: Julio Cortez/AP)