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Hillsborough County, FL - Hillsborough County commissioners have approved $17.96 million in tourist development tax funds for renovations at George M. Steinbrenner Field, the spring training stadium for the New York Yankees.
The decision passed with a 6-1 vote, with Commissioner Donna Cameron Cepeda casting the only dissenting vote.
The approved funds are part of a larger renovation plan totaling approximately $39.8 million.
The Yankees organization is contributing an additional $22 million to the project.
Renovations will include a new $4.5 million scoreboard, a $900,000 sound system, expanded Wi-Fi, security upgrades including cameras and magnetometers, seating improvements, parking lot repaving, concession upgrades, and enhancements to the main entrance plaza.
Work is scheduled to begin in fall 2025, with the majority of projects expected to be completed by 2027.
Commissioners emphasized that Steinbrenner Field is a county-owned asset, making maintenance necessary to protect public safety and limit liability.
The funds will come entirely from bed tax revenue on overnight lodging, meaning no general taxpayer funds will be used.
Steinbrenner Field has been a central sports venue in Hillsborough County since its opening in 1996 and has previously undergone several upgrades, including a $17 million player development renovation in 2024.
The Yankees’ 2025 spring training season generated an estimated $288 million in economic impact for the Tampa Bay region, including $157 million in direct spending on accommodations, dining, and local businesses.
The renovations reflect ongoing county efforts to maintain public sports facilities and support events that contribute to the local economy.