Keep the Tampa Bay Rays in Saint Petersburg
Keep the Tampa Bay Rays in Saint Petersburg
The Issue
As a lifelong resident of Saint Petersburg and an ardent supporter of the Tampa Bay Rays, today's news comes as a hard pill to swallow. The Hillsborough County Commissioners have voted 5-2 in favor of developing a $2.3 billion ballpark at the Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough College. Following closely was the Tampa City Council's tight 4-3 vote to approve its section of the funding plan, setting the stage for the Rays to move to Tampa.
This shift isn't just about a change in geography; it's about uprooting a team that has become a vital thread in the fabric of Saint Petersburg's community. Beyond the iconic games and thrilling baseball seasons, the Rays have fueled our local economy, created jobs, and brought national recognition to our cherished city.
The American Sports & Entertainment Association's study revealed that the St. Petersburg Tropicana Field location contributes over $300 million annually to the local economy. Moving the team to Tampa would not only disrupt this economic activity but also impact countless local businesses relying on the game-day flow of fans.
We cannot overlook the emotional resonance and community ties that the Rays have built in Saint Petersburg. From youth baseball clinics to community service projects, the Rays have been more than just a sports team—they've been a source of community pride and inspiration for young athletes dreaming big.
We propose that instead of relocating, the investment should be made within Saint Petersburg to enhance and modernize Tropicana Field or construct a new stadium fit for the Rays' future. Doing so would keep our beloved Rays where they truly belong while continuing to spur the positive economic and social contributions they provide to our city.
By signing this petition, you are standing up for Saint Petersburg's economic resilience, safeguarding our community's jobs, and upholding the rich legacy the Rays have built here. Let's show our commitment to keeping the Tampa Bay Rays in the heart of the city they've called home for so long. Please sign and share to support this cause.
14
The Issue
As a lifelong resident of Saint Petersburg and an ardent supporter of the Tampa Bay Rays, today's news comes as a hard pill to swallow. The Hillsborough County Commissioners have voted 5-2 in favor of developing a $2.3 billion ballpark at the Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough College. Following closely was the Tampa City Council's tight 4-3 vote to approve its section of the funding plan, setting the stage for the Rays to move to Tampa.
This shift isn't just about a change in geography; it's about uprooting a team that has become a vital thread in the fabric of Saint Petersburg's community. Beyond the iconic games and thrilling baseball seasons, the Rays have fueled our local economy, created jobs, and brought national recognition to our cherished city.
The American Sports & Entertainment Association's study revealed that the St. Petersburg Tropicana Field location contributes over $300 million annually to the local economy. Moving the team to Tampa would not only disrupt this economic activity but also impact countless local businesses relying on the game-day flow of fans.
We cannot overlook the emotional resonance and community ties that the Rays have built in Saint Petersburg. From youth baseball clinics to community service projects, the Rays have been more than just a sports team—they've been a source of community pride and inspiration for young athletes dreaming big.
We propose that instead of relocating, the investment should be made within Saint Petersburg to enhance and modernize Tropicana Field or construct a new stadium fit for the Rays' future. Doing so would keep our beloved Rays where they truly belong while continuing to spur the positive economic and social contributions they provide to our city.
By signing this petition, you are standing up for Saint Petersburg's economic resilience, safeguarding our community's jobs, and upholding the rich legacy the Rays have built here. Let's show our commitment to keeping the Tampa Bay Rays in the heart of the city they've called home for so long. Please sign and share to support this cause.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on August 29, 2026