Finally, we have our first look at what the new Diamond District stadium will look like.
Recently acquired through a Freedom of Information Act request by Richmond BizSense, the preliminary designs, which are subject to change, offer a glimpse into the envisioned 10,000-seat Diamond District ballpark, which will serve as the centerpiece of the broader Diamond District mixed-use development. Among the key features highlighted in the designs are upper-level suites situated above open-air seating, along with various amenities surrounding the ballfield such as an outfield play area, terraced lawn seating, a beer garden, and more.
Also, responsibility for the stadium now falls under the Richmond Flying Squirrels, reflecting a shift in the project’s direction. Spearheaded by the Houston-based Machete Group, the new design team is committed to imbuing the stadium with a “Richmond-centric design,” drawing from the city’s industrial heritage and landmarks. Meanwhile, RVA Diamond Partners will oversee the remainder of the Diamond District planning.
The proposed 10,000 seats mark a return to the original capacity plan for the venue. Initially conceived for 8,000 seats and 2,000 standing-room spots, the capacity was later adjusted to 9,000 and then 9,400. Currently, The Diamond accommodates about 9,500 spectators, with Flying Squirrels games drawing an average attendance of over 6,000.
However, the projected cost of the stadium has risen to between $110 million and $120 million, up from the previous estimate of $90 million with the aim of completing the new stadium by the 2026 baseball season.
Source reporting from Richmond BizSense HERE
