Scoop: Hillsborough College asks state for $50M ahead of Rays stadium revamp
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Rendering: Courtesy of Hillsborough College
Hillsborough College requested $50 million from the state as it prepares to make room for a new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays, records show.
Why it matters: This is the clearest example yet of how state tax dollars could support the Rays' proposed ballpark and mixed-use district — even as Gov. Ron DeSantis has ruled out directly funding the project.
Driving the news: State Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) filed the request on Monday, one day before the college voted to enter into an agreement with the Rays that, among other things, promised new academic buildings.
- Hillsborough College and the Rays did not say at Tuesday's meeting how much money would be needed to build the new campus, branded by the team as "Innovation Edge," or who would foot the bill.
- The Southern Group, which also represents the Rays, is listed on the request as the college's lobbying firm.
Between the lines: Burgess' request didn't mention the Rays' stadium plans or the college's agreement with the team. It said the state money would fund construction of various "college improvement projects."
- But it said that construction is expected to begin on Nov. 1 and finish Feb. 2, 2029. That timeline would align with the team's goal of playing in a new stadium by Opening Day 2029.
- And the agreement between the team and college states that the stadium project would "cause" the campus to be redeveloped, with Hillsborough College responsible for its construction.
- The college's new campus would front North Lois Avenue on land not leased to the Rays, though the team would retain approval over the design and aesthetics of the buildings.
Burgess, Hillsborough College and the governor's office did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.
- The Rays declined to comment, referring questions to the college.
Editor's note: This is a developing story and will be updated.