The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp proudly announced Project NEXT, the club’s plan for the $31.8 million publicly-funded renovation of 121 Financial Ballpark at 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd.
Project NEXT is the first major renovation to 121 Financial Ballpark since its opening in 2003, according to a recent press release. While aiming to meet MLB requirements, Project NEXT also seeks to reinvent the Crustacean Nation fan experience by adding a larger video board, enhanced club space behind the home plate, a new multilevel building, and new concession options. Team owner and CEO Ken Babby said the project will be completed by early 2025.
“This is a generational moment for the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, our city, fans, and community partners,” Babby said during the announcement. “Project NEXT is a journey that will take us through the most substantive renovations since our ballpark was born in 2003. We are excited to usher in this next chapter for this remarkable facility to meet the demands of both baseball fans and the community. Thank you to our partners, the City of Jacksonville, the mayor’s office, the City Council, and ASM Global. With your trust in us, we are excited to deliver upon this vision.”
The long-term vision of Project NEXT also includes the creation of an enhanced club space behind home plate, a brand-new front porch, and a center field plaza to welcome fans like never before. In the right field, Project NEXT plans a multilevel building, making the Jumbo Shrimp VyStar Credit Union Souvenir Store accessible on the street level and on the concourse level, an incredible space that will be downtown Jacksonville’s newest spot for banquets and meetings. The Jumbo Shrimp also announced that it is incredibly honored and proud to work with the Canopy Team and Janet Marie Smith.
“The planned improvements to 121 Financial Ballpark will build upon a successful tradition of accessible entertainment for families in Jacksonville,” Smith said in a press release. “By providing new spaces for fans, different food and beverage options, and opportunities to watch the game in exciting and innovative ways, the Jumbo Shrimp and the City of Jacksonville are ensuring a long and positive future for baseball in the Bold City.”
