RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond City Council has approved the plan to finance the new ballpark for the Richmond Flying Squirrels and the highly anticipated Diamond District project.
Richmond City Council voted Wednesday to approve plans to authorize issuing “special revenue bonds” to pay for the design, acquisition, construction and equipping of a new baseball stadium, as well as “certain public infrastructure” connected to the diamond district development.
Richmond resident Elizabeth Greenfield shared her excitement about the project moving forward.
“I think I can echo all the comments about the jobs that it will bring,” Greenfield said. “It is a great economic development opportunity for the city, and we are most proud and grateful for the city’s efforts to prioritize affordable housing as part of this project.”
The project includes a new stadium for the Squirrels and the redevelopment of much of the Scott’s Addition neighborhood. The city said it won’t impact its ability to afford other projects, like the rebuilding of Fox Elementary School or the construction of Richmond High School for the Arts.
City Council member Andreas Addison believes this decision will be a home run for everyone.
“We’re not making a one-off decision,” Addison said. “This is not by itself on an island, this is part of an entire new neighborhood and an incredible way of, I think, really investing in our future city.”
The stadium is expected to be ready for the 2026 Minor League Baseball season, according to Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney.
“Baseball is here to stay in Richmond,” said Stoney. “For years now, Richmonders have been clear that they want a state-of-the-art stadium for the Flying Squirrels and a vibrant new neighborhood for all Richmonders to enjoy.”
