Hills. Comm. OK’s Yankee Stadium Extension

 

 

It looks like the New York Yankees’ long relationship with the bay area will continue for decades to come.

Hillsborough County commissioners today unanimously approved a lease extension for the team to play its spring training games at Tampa’s George Steinbrenner Field through 2046.

The deal includes $40 million in renovations to the stadium including a 360 degree view walkway, bigger entrances, and more shaded areas for fans.

There will also be better workout facilities for the team.

The upgrades will be paid for equally by the county through its tourist tax, the state, and the team.

Opponents say the county’s portion of the money should be spent on parks, art centers, and more festivals.

Studies are divided on whether spending public money for stadiums yields more jobs and tax revenue.