The Federal Emergency Management Agency has committed $16.5 million to reimburse St. Petersburg for repairs to Tropicana Field, which was severely damaged by Hurricane Milton in October 2024.
St. Petersburg Assistant City Administrator Tom Greene informed City Council members of the expected reimbursement in a Feb. 10 email, describing it as “an extremely promising step in the process.” The funding is part of a broader $480 million federal disaster recovery package announced Jan. 30 that covers more than 500 projects across Florida.
The $16.5 million figure is based on estimated repair costs minus insurance proceeds already collected. The city has so far received $10.8 million in insurance payments, while the council has approved a total of $59.7 million for repairs. Through Dec. 31, the city had been billed $34.2 million for remediation, repairs, and security combined. St. Petersburg also anticipates an additional $2.75 million from the state.
Greene cautioned that the timing of the actual payment remains unclear, as repairs are still ongoing. Turf installation is expected to wrap up this week, with all work set to be completed before opening day on April 6.
Milton tore the stadium’s roof off in October 2024, forcing the Tampa Bay Rays to play their 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, the spring training facility of the New York Yankees, their division rival. As a result of the one-year displacement, the Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field was extended by one year, keeping them there through the 2028 season.
Separately, the Rays — under new ownership — have used their own funds to make additional upgrades to the facility, including office repairs, suite enhancements, a new video board, premium seating, and an expanded social area in centerfield.
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