Tampa City Council approves funding for Rays' new stadium project

The Tampa City Council approved an $80 million funding package for the Tampa Bay Rays' proposed $2.36 billion ballpark. The decision came after a lengthy public hearing, resulting in a narrow 4-3 vote. This funding marks a significant step after years of searching for a new stadium and follows an ownership change to a group led by Patrick Zalupski. The city’s funding represents just 3% of the total project cost, with further votes expected from Hillsborough County regarding additional financial support.

• 12:20 AMYahoo Sports — Tampa City Council Narrowly Approves Rays Stadium Funding