Although not yet officially named, in the official city, county, and organizational documents the new stadium is referred to as the Miami Ballpark. Once they move in for the 2012 baseball season, the Marlins themselves will change their name to the Miami Marlins. The most notable feature of the new stadium will be its retractable roof, which will guard against rain and oppressive heat. Currently the Marlins play in the open-air LandShark Stadium (also known as Dolphin Stadium) which they share with the Miami Dolphins.
The new stadium is being designed by Populous, formerly known as HOK Sport. HOK Sport has designed many other stadiums, including the new Busch Stadium, the new Yankee Stadium, and the Minnesota Twins' new stadium, Target Field, which will open in 2010.
Location
The site of the new stadium is about two miles west of downtown Miami in the Little Havana area. It is the former site of the Miami Orange Bowl, which was demolished in 2008. The Marlins signed a non-relocation agreement and will remain in Miami for at least 35 years. The team will likely spend most of those years, if not all, at the Miami Ballpark. The official groundbreaking ceremony will be held on July 18th, 2009.
Capacity
The new stadium will have a seating capacity of about 37,000. This is down from the 38,560 capacity of LandShark Stadium (expandable up to 68,000 for post-season play), and the new stadium's capacity will be among the lowest of all the Major League stadiums.
Dimensions
Miami Ballpark will be a pitcher-friendly stadium with deep dimensions. It will be 340 feet down the left field line, 416 to center field, and 335 down the right field line. Peaking at 420 feet from home plate, the new stadium will also feature a "Bermuda Triangle." A notable peculiarity to the current stadium, the "Bermuda Triangle" is an area in center field with irregular dimensions.
Costs
Taxpayers of Miami-Dade county will supply $297 million toward the project as well as $50 million from the local "Building Better Communities General Obligations Bond" funds. The city of Miami will provide the land, cover the $10 million cost of the demolition of the Miami Orange Bowl, and supply an additional $13 million. The Marlins will pay $155 million, not including any overages, plus pay $100 million for nearby parking. In all, not including nearby infrastructure and maintenance costs, the stadium itself is budgeted to cost $515 million.
Sources
The Marlins New Ballpark Official Site
