Athletics' New Ballpark Plans Take Center Stage at Upcoming Las Vegas Stadium Authority Board Meeting

The Las Vegas Stadium Authority Board is set to convene on Thursday to discuss crucial elements of the Oakland Athletics' plans to build a new ballpark in Las Vegas for the 2028 season. According to Mick Akers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the agenda will include several significant ballpark-related matters, particularly focusing on the financing of the project.

Four letters will be presented, outlining the financial commitments towards the construction of the new stadium. These letters are from the Athletics themselves, owner John Fisher regarding his family's investment, U.S. Bank concerning the Fisher family's finances and ability to meet their commitments, and a joint letter from U.S. Bank and Goldman Sachs regarding their $300 million loan to help fund the stadium's construction.

The most notable update is the project's rising cost, which has increased from $1.5 billion to $1.75 billion. This increase, while anticipated, is attributed to a combination of adding new features to the ballpark and general rises in construction costs. As A's executive Sandy Dean explained, the additional funds will go towards upgrades in the suites and general admissions areas, an advanced audio and visual system for hosting concerts, and a unique seat-cooling system.

The financing breakdown for the project includes up to $380 million covered by Clark County and the state of Nevada, $300 million from the U.S. Bank/Goldman Sachs loan, and the remaining costs, including the new $250 million, will be financed by the Fisher family and the Athletics. The Fisher family's stake could be reduced if minority owners are found, with new partners potentially covering part of the construction costs in exchange for a small share in the franchise. The Athletics have committed to covering any further increases in the project’s budget.

Three critical agreements will be decided at Thursday’s meeting. These include not only the ballpark’s construction but also elements such as the initial 30-year lease and contingencies if the Athletics attempt to relocate before the lease's conclusion. Akers describes this meeting as "the most important to date" in advancing the Athletics' project.

If the plans proceed smoothly, construction is set to begin this spring, targeting an opening date for the 2028 season. During the interim, the Athletics will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento for the 2025-27 seasons.

​This pivotal meeting represents a significant step forward in the Athletics' quest to establish their new home in Las Vegas, bringing the project one step closer to fruition.