The Rome Braves (Low A; Sally League) are working to extend their State Mutual Stadium lease, which would clear the way for future ballpark upgrades.
Negotiations between the Braves and ballpark owner Floyd County are taking place, with an eye on extending the agreement between the two sides. An extension has not been finalized, but if it moves forward, the ballpark will be in line for a number of improvements.
Special purpose, local option sales tax (SPLOST) funding will factor into the State Mutual Stadium upgrades, which will include overhauls to some key team and fan amenities. The two sides are reportedly working to finalize at least a five-year extension, which would include a five-year renewal option. More from the Rome News-Tribune:
Floyd County Manager Jamie McCord said he’s hoping to have a new contract with the Rome Braves in hand by the first week in November.
“We’re looking at an extension of at least five years, with a five-year option (to renew),” he told the County Commission last week during their fall planning session.
A signed contract will clear the way for improvements to State Mutual Stadium funded with a $2 million earmark in the 2017 special purpose, local option sales tax package.
New locker rooms, a larger store and a banquet pavilion are among the upgrades planned. The franchise also intends to make some changes to the facility, although details have not yet been released.
State Mutual Stadium originally opened in 2003, the first year that the Braves played in Rome after they relocated from Macon, GA.