At its meeting on Monday, the Madison City Council approved a series of measures for a proposed new ballpark for the relocating Moble BayBears (Class AA; Southern League).
Madison, AL officials have been working with BallCorps, LLC–the ownership group that purchased the BayBears last year–-on a plan to construct a new ballpark in the Town Madison development. The two sides have come to terms on a 30-year lease, management, and license agreement, but some other key steps remain in the process.
Some tasks were accomplished on Monday, when the city council approved three measures relating to the ballpark. One step was tabled, however, as the council opted to hold off on voting on a funding agreement with the Town Madison Cooperative District in order to continue working on certain details. More from WHNT:
“We’re continuing to move forward in a positive manner in a timeline we’ve laid out,” said Tommy Overcash, Madison City Council President.
The moves the council made push the project forward, but don’t signify any done deal just yet.
The council approved warrant validation for the multi-use venue financing and authorized the mayor to enter into a property donation agreement with the developer. They tabled a funding agreement with the Town Madison Cooperative District because attorneys say it isn’t ready yet, The council did push forward authorization for the mayor to enter into a development agreement with BallCorps, LLC.
At this point, it is anticipated that the ballpark will open in time for the 2020 season, though that is pending several remaining steps–including league approval for the BayBears to relocate. For the 2018 and 2019 seasons, the BayBears would remain in Mobile, where they would continue to play at Hank Aaron Stadium. The new Madison facility would also be expected to host other non-baseball events, including concerts, group events and perhaps other sports like pro soccer and high-school football.
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