Tampa Bay Rays News: St. Petersburg City Council approves $1.3 billion new stadium project

There is no denying that the Tampa Bay Rays play in one of the worst stadiums in baseball, Tropicana Field. They have been trying to find a way to play in a new stadium, and are finally one step closer.

On Thursday, it was reported that the St. Petersburg City Council approved the team's $1.3 billion ballpark project. The vote passed on a 5-3 margin, but the deal is not set in stone yet.

The project still needs to be approved by the Pinellas County Commission, and they will vote on the matter on July 30. Early speculation is that the city will get the approval to continue with the project.

If everything fell into place and Tampa Bay did move stadiums, it would be the first time since 1998. And with the low fan attendance, a new stadium is something that could bring fans back into the ballpark.

What do the Rays have planned for their new stadium?

Tampa Bay Rays - Kevin cash (Image via USA Today)

One thing that the Rays are hoping to bring with their new stadium is an increased number of fans. Tropicana Field can hold 25,025, the lowest in all of MLB, but the new stadium is designed to hold 30,000.

One interesting aspect of the new proposed stadium is the foul territory. The designs have it so that the stadium would have the smallest foul territory and the shortest distance from home plate to the backstop.

This makes for a great experience for the fans, making them feel closer than ever to the action. However, it would make for some tougher plays out there on the field.

There are also thoughts to improve the roof to a tiered, pavillon-style. This would greatly help guys like Randy Arozarena track baseballs of the bat more easily.