News Summary
The Bristol City Council has unanimously approved an updated operating agreement with Boyd Sports to enhance Tod Houston Field, the future home of the Bristol State Liners baseball team. The agreement includes increased financial commitments from Boyd Sports, totaling $2 million for renovations, while providing economic benefits to the city and ensuring improved facilities for local sports and community events. The upgrades will modernize the field’s amenities and support youth activities and various special events, marking a significant step in revitalizing Bristol’s baseball scene.
Bristol, Tennessee – The Bristol City Council unanimously approved an updated operating agreement with Boyd Sports and the city school system to enhance Tod Houston Field, the upcoming home of the Bristol State Liners baseball team. The new agreement promises increased economic benefits to the city and aims to significantly improve the facilities used for local sports and events.
The amended agreement comes after city officials conducted detailed discussions following last year’s initial contract. City representatives indicated that these talks have led to the identification of new revenue sources for ongoing city projects and operations. As part of this deal, Boyd Sports will lease Tod Houston Field for a term of 15 years, securing the team’s future in Bristol.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Boyd Sports has increased its annual lease payments to the city, rising from $15,000 to $25,000. Additionally, Boyd Sports has committed to investing $2 million to construct a new stadium at the site. The Bristol City Schools will also contribute significantly to the improvements with a budget of $1.5 million allocated for the project.
Planned Improvements
The proposed renovations to Tod Houston Field are extensive and designed to modernize the facilities in line with current standards for professional baseball. Key upgrades include:
- Construction of a new or renovated ticket booth
- New press box, restrooms, offices, clubhouse facilities, concessions, and souvenir areas
- Installation of bullpens and dugouts
- Construction of batting cages
- Installation of artificial turf, upgraded lighting, and a new video board
Utilization of the Field
Once completed, the upgraded Tod Houston Field will serve multiple purposes. It will be utilized by both the city and the Bristol City Schools, ensuring that local youth have access to quality playing facilities. The field will remain home to the Tennessee High School baseball team and will also host various special city events, thereby reinforcing its importance in the community.
Upcoming Baseball Season
The Appalachian League season is set to commence on June 5, with the Bristol State Liners scheduled to play their home games at Johnson City’s TVA Credit Union Ballpark during the 2025 season. Their first game at TVA Credit Union Ballpark will be on June 6 against the Johnson City Doughboys, marking the beginning of what hopes to be an exciting new chapter for the team.
About Boyd Sports
Boyd Sports is the owner of several minor league baseball teams, including the Knoxville Smokies and Johnson City Doughboys. The company aims to invest in community-centered facilities that enhance local sports experiences for all age groups.
The approval of the updated operating agreement is a significant step towards revitalizing Bristol’s baseball scene, ensuring that the local community has access to improved sporting facilities while generating new economic opportunities.
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Additional Resources
- WJHL: Boyd Sports Agreement
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- SuperTalk 92.9: Boyd Sports Operating Agreement
- Google Search: Boyd Sports Bristol State Liners
- WBIR: Boyd Sports Bristol State Liners
- Google Scholar: Bristol State Liners
- WCYB: Bristol State Liners New Ownership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol State Liners
- Herald Courier: Bristol State Liners
- Google News: Bristol State Liners
