Arizona’s Chase Field Set for Major Upgrades with Public Funding
In a move to preserve one of Phoenix’s key economic drivers, Gov. Katie Hobbs made an appearance at Chase Field to mark the passage of a bill that allocates public funds for significant renovations to the stadium. Despite this legislative milestone, the Arizona Diamondbacks have not yet finalized a new lease agreement with the stadium’s governing body.
House Bill 2704, which was officially signed by Hobbs in June, permits the use of state, county, and local tax revenues collected at Chase Field over the next 30 years for substantial repairs. On Wednesday, Hobbs, accompanied by lawmakers and team representatives, participated in a ceremonial signing of the bill, underscoring its significance.
The legislation has faced criticism from both political parties, with opponents arguing against the use of taxpayer money to support a multi-billion dollar sports franchise. Some Democratic legislators attempted to amend the bill to include public benefits, such as reduced concession prices and free streaming of Diamondbacks games for residents.
Hobbs emphasized her goal of achieving a bipartisan agreement, which was realized when HB 2704 passed through both chambers of the Arizona Legislature with support from both parties. She defended the bill by stating, “It’s a simple fact that without the Diamondbacks playing here at Chase Field, Arizona would be worse off, and I was not about to let that happen.”
Funding Details
Set to take effect on September 26, right after the Diamondbacks’ last home game of the season, HB 2704 authorizes $500 million in public funding for stadium upgrades, a figure that could exceed $1 billion due to inflation. Derrick Hall, CEO of the Diamondbacks, mentioned the possibility of costs rising, though the exact total remains uncertain.
The allocated funds are intended for essential repairs like air conditioning replacements and roof fixes, excluding luxury features such as pools or suites. While the Diamondbacks have pledged to contribute $250 million to the project, the bill does not mandate this commitment, a point noted by critics like Phoenix Mayor Katie Gallego.
Gov. Hobbs and Hall suggested that legal constraints prevented inclusion of an obligatory team contribution in the bill, but Hall affirmed the team’s dedication to its financial pledge.
The legislation also stipulates that should the law be repealed due to non-payment by the team, the Diamondbacks would be responsible for any outstanding debts, and Phoenix could acquire ownership of the stadium land.
Lease Negotiations
The current ownership of Chase Field by a Maricopa County stadium district has led to ongoing disputes over maintenance responsibilities. Despite the passing of HB 2704, the Diamondbacks have yet to finalize a new lease.
Discussions are ongoing with the county’s stadium district board, which has historically had a contentious relationship with the team. HB 2704 establishes a new board, with appointments by the Phoenix mayor, county supervisors, and qualified residents selected by the governor, potentially influencing future lease negotiations.
Derrick Hall indicated that the team might delay signing a new lease until the new board is in place. The potential lease could mirror the current agreement and span 30 years, aligning with the funding duration set by HB 2704.
Project Timeline
The Diamondbacks are set to begin planning the renovations with their stadium consultant. The project is expected to be long-term, with major renovations taking approximately five years. Priority will be given to replacing the roof, air conditioning system, and concrete structures.
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