With the arrival of the Women’s Final Four in Tampa, we’ve got all things sports on our minds. In this case, sports facilities.
We’re checking in on two renovation projects in Tampa:
Ray Jay improvements
Raymond James is approaching its 30th birthday. Yes, it’s that old.
This week, Bucs’ co-owner Joel Glazer confirmed plans for a huge renovation are in the works. The stadium got its last refresh six years ago — including a new replay system, nursing stations, and a 2,400-sqft Nike Concept store in the team store.
But leaders are constantly looking at ways to improve fan experience, Glazer said in an interview.
“We’re constantly looking at the stadium, constantly looking at how we can improve it,” said Joel Glazer.
Ownership will work with Hillsborough County to come up with a game plan before the Bucs’ lease on the stadium expires in 2028.
Riverfront Recreation Center
Speaking of the Final Four, the tournament + Dove Brand just paid for a complete overhaul of Tampa’s Riverfront Recreation Center.
What’s included? The revamped center features a computer lab, a basketball mural, indoor basketball court modeled after the Final Four court, literary lounge, plus new lighting and landscaping.
City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Team Supervisor Cedric Smith lauded the upgrades, saying the project transformed “an unwelcoming building into a focal point of pride for the community. "
