Jun 26
Sports

Home Run for Arizona: New Plan Keeps Diamondbacks at Chase Field

SHARE:
Adobe Stock/Marcus Jones/stock.adobe.com
Home Run for Arizona: New Plan Keeps Diamondbacks at Chase Field

Arizona is poised to lock in the long-term future of the Diamondbacks in downtown Phoenix, as legislation to fund necessary repairs and upgrades at Chase Field moves to Governor Katie Hobbs’ desk following overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature.

House Bill 2704, sponsored by State Representative Jeff Weninger, creates a dedicated funding stream for maintaining and modernizing the stadium—without raising taxes. Instead, the bill redirects existing sales and income tax revenue generated by the team and its events to support the upkeep of the publicly owned venue.

“This is a smart, responsible solution that keeps the Diamondbacks where they belong—at Chase Field in the heart of our capital city,” said Weninger, who chairs the House Commerce Committee. “We’re protecting jobs, preserving economic impact, and keeping our beloved World Champion Major League Baseball team in Phoenix—all without new taxes.”

Governor Hobbs has expressed support for the initiative, and her signature is expected soon. The Diamondbacks, who do not own Chase Field, have already invested over $200 million in the stadium and have pledged another $250 million for future renovations.

With the team’s lease set to expire in 2027, HB2704 comes at a critical time, offering a long-term solution that keeps the Diamondbacks in-state while ensuring Chase Field remains a viable, first-class sports venue. Since opening in 1998, the ballpark has welcomed over 55 million fans.

“The voting results and bipartisan enthusiasm clearly showed the need for funding for this economically generating public asset,” said Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall. “I want to thank Representative Weninger, all of the supportive lawmakers, and Governor Hobbs for the leadership with HB2704.”

The funding mechanism ties resources directly to the revenue they generate, ensuring that Arizonans who don’t attend games won’t foot the bill. Supporters say the plan makes financial sense and safeguards a major driver of downtown Phoenix’s economy.


SHARE:

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

Want to stay in the loop? Be the first to know! Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest stories, updates, and insider news delivered straight to your inbox.