St. Petersburg, FL – Repair work at Tropicana Field is progressing quickly after Hurricane Milton caused major structural damage to the stadium’s roof in 2024.
City officials confirmed that 20 of the 24 new roof panels have been installed, with the remaining panels expected to be in place within the next week.
The City of St. Petersburg anticipates completing all repairs by the end of February, well before the Tampa Bay Rays’ scheduled home opener on April 6th, 2026.
The storm left the dome unplayable, forcing the Rays to spend the 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.
Under a 1995 agreement, St. Petersburg is required to maintain Tropicana Field in playable condition for the team.
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Officials said the city’s repair budget stands at $59.7 million, covering roof replacement, interior restoration, and safety upgrades.
Insurance has provided $7.65 million in reimbursement, and discussions continue with FEMA for additional funding.
Interior renovations include drywall, ceiling tiles, and lighting installations, as well as repairs to locker rooms, concession areas, and the scoreboard.
The Rays are handling updates to certain team facilities, including the stingray touch tank.
Once construction concludes, the city plans to conduct full air-quality testing throughout the stadium before reopening.
City representatives and team officials have met weekly to coordinate the project, which remains on schedule.
The Rays are expected to return to Tropicana Field for the 2026 season.