URGENT UPDATE: The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to stay at Chase Field for the next 30 years following a landmark renovation deal approved by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. The announcement came as Hobbs signed House Bill 2704 on the Diamondbacks’ dugout just before their game against the Texas Rangers on Wednesday.
This significant decision, costing $500 million, addresses the urgent need for upgrades at Chase Field, which has remained largely unchanged since its opening in 1998. Governor Hobbs emphasized the importance of this investment for the fans and the community, stating, “It’s time we show up for them.”
The renovations will be funded by recapturing sales taxes from the stadium and surrounding developments over the next three decades. The Maricopa County Stadium District owns Chase Field, and the Arizona House of Representatives had previously approved the bill in June.
Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall expressed relief at finally securing a long-term solution. “We’ve been looking for a solution for easily over seven years… We’re committed to putting in at least another $250 million,” Hall said during the signing ceremony.
The renovations are critically needed, particularly for the air conditioning system, vital for coping with Phoenix’s sweltering summer heat. Currently, the team’s lease with the county is set to expire in 2027, making this deal a timely resolution to secure the team’s future.
Fans can expect a transformed experience at Chase Field, with the renovations promising to enhance the stadium’s infrastructure and amenities. The Diamondbacks’ commitment to invest in the facility is a clear signal of their dedication to the local community and their fans.
This announcement comes amidst a challenging season for the Diamondbacks, who recently lost star player Gurriel to a season-ending ACL tear. As the team navigates through these challenges, the renovation funding provides a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
With the bill now signed and the commitment in place, all eyes will be on the Diamondbacks as they embark on this critical renovation journey. Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how these improvements will unfold in the coming years, making it an exciting time for baseball in Arizona.
