Image courtesy: X(Athletics)
The Oakland Athletics’ upcoming move to Las Vegas is becoming a pricier endeavor than initially anticipated. According to Evan Drellich of The Athletic, the projected cost for the A’s new stadium has risen to $1.75 billion—an increase of $250 million over earlier estimates. The 33,000-seat ballpark, set to open in 2028, will feature enhanced amenities and cutting-edge technology that contribute to the inflated price tag.
What’s Driving the Cost Increase?
The significant jump in costs stems from escalating construction expenses and the addition of 70,000 square feet of upgraded stadium features. Sandy Dean, a minority stakeholder in the Athletics, detailed some of the enhancements, including expanded clubs and suites, upgraded general admission spaces, and improved player facilities.
Mick Akers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal highlighted one particularly innovative feature: the stadium will be the first in Major League Baseball to offer under-seat cooling, a nod to the desert climate of Las Vegas.
“The design process is iterative, and has been allowing us to add elements to the ballpark intended to make this a premier facility for Major League Baseball,” Dean told Akers.
Who Will Pay for the Upgrades?
The additional costs will primarily be covered by the team and the Fisher family, which owns the Athletics. Of the $1.75 billion price tag, Fisher and the Athletics are responsible for $1.4 billion. The remaining $350 million will come from public funding, as outlined in Senate Bill 1, which was approved in June 2023.
“The increases in the cost of the stadium are the responsibility of the team,” Dean said, adding that the Fisher family would likely finance the additional $250 million needed for the project.
Public contributions remain unchanged at $350 million but are subject to adjustments based on factors such as interest rates and further project refinements.
Aiming for Excellence: Features of the New Ballpark
The Athletics are pulling out all the stops to make their Las Vegas stadium a world-class MLB venue. The 33,000-seat facility will offer modern amenities tailored to enhance both the fan and player experience.
Some of the standout features include:
- Under-seat cooling: A first in MLB, designed for Las Vegas’ hot climate.
- Expanded luxury offerings: More clubs, suites, and enhanced general admission spaces.
- Player-centric upgrades: State-of-the-art player amenities to attract top talent.
The stadium’s design emphasizes comfort, innovation, and a premium experience, aligning with the Athletics’ goal to create a “premier” venue for MLB.
Current Timeline and Interim Plans
Construction for the Las Vegas stadium is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2025, with completion aimed for the 2028 MLB season. In the meantime, the Athletics will play their home games at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, California, over the next three years.
Public vs. Private Contributions: A Financial Breakdown
- Private funding: $1.4 billion from the Fisher family and the Athletics organization.
- Public funding: $350 million via Senate Bill 1, covering infrastructure and other associated costs.
The reliance on public funding has sparked debate, but proponents argue the new stadium will generate significant economic activity and solidify Las Vegas as a premier sports destination.
The Big Picture
The Athletics’ new Las Vegas stadium represents a significant investment in the future of the franchise and the city’s burgeoning reputation as a sports hub. While the increased cost presents challenges, the enhancements aim to deliver a fan and player experience unlike any other in Major League Baseball.
As construction begins and the Athletics transition to their new home, all eyes will be on how this state-of-the-art facility shapes the future of the team—and the league.
