As Sports stadiums from the 1990s age, many professional teams are seeking new facilities and public funding to finance them. According to economics professor J.C. Bradbury, a new wave of stadium construction is underway across the country. Teams like the Bears and White Sox in Chicago, the Guardians in Cleveland, the Brewers in Milwaukee, and the Thunder in Oklahoma City are all pursuing new stadiums. Despite growing public debate on the issue, government subsidies for stadiums are at a median of about $500 million, up from $350 million in 2010. Recent examples include $850 million for the Buffalo Bills in New York and over $1.2 billion for the Tennessee Titans in Nashville. The trend is expected to continue, fueled by pandemic aid and strong economies.
In Las Vegas, public funding supported the Allegiant Stadium where Nevada recently hosted its first Super Bowl. The A’s are now seeking a new stadium in Las Vegas, but the plan faces opposition from Nevada teachers who believe public funds should go to education, not sports facilities. Despite the economic benefits brought by major events, schools in Nevada rank low in funding, raising concerns among educators.
While public funding for stadiums is increasing in dollar amount, it is decreasing as a share of overall costs due to private investment in surrounding developments and infrastructure. Even though stadium investments often do not provide significant economic benefits, many leaders see them as essential for civic pride and city identity. In smaller markets like Oklahoma City, sports teams are seen as vital to the city’s economic and cultural growth. Leaders like Mayor David Holt supported public funding for the Thunder’s new arena to maintain the team’s presence and strengthen the city’s identity. In cities like Milwaukee, lawmakers are focusing on tangible benefits like income tax contributions from sports teams to justify public funding for stadium projects.
