Big Changes Coming to Tod Houston Memorial Field in Bristol, TN with New Management and Major Upgrades

Big Changes Coming to Tod Houston Memorial Field in Bristol, TN

BRISTOL, Tenn. – Exciting news is in the air for sports fans in the area! The Bristol Tennessee City Council recently took a significant step forward by unanimously agreeing to an agreement that will see Boyd Sports take over the operations of the beloved Tod Houston Memorial Field. This switch means that the field will now serve as the home turf for both the Tennessee High Vikings and the Bristol State Liners of the Appalachian League.

What’s the Agreement All About?

During a special meeting on September 10, Parks and Recreation Director Mike Mains updated the council on the key elements of the agreement with Boyd Sports. He mentioned that Boyd Sports is committed to investing a substantial amount into the facility – up to $2 million. So, what’s this money going to be used for? Key enhancements like installing artificial turf, putting in a shiny new video board, and creating dedicated group sales areas at the stadium.

A Long-term Partnership

The agreement isn’t just for a day or two but for a significant 15-year lease. This means that Boyd Sports will manage Tod Houston Memorial Field during the entire 24-game season of the Bristol State Liners, running from June 1 to August 1. Mains pointed out that the cost for facility upkeep and utilities will be a shared deal between Boyd Sports and the local school system. “The city will be there to help in any way we can,” he assured.

Revenue Sharing Made Simple

One of the best parts? The revenue generated from sponsorship naming rights will be split evenly, with 50% going to the Bristol Tennessee school system and the other half to Boyd Sports. Not only that, but both parties will also share the advertising and concession sales throughout the year, providing a great chance for both Boyd Sports and Tennessee High to bring in some extra resources for their programs.

How Much Will the City Benefit?

With this new agreement in place, the City of Bristol will also benefit financially. They’re set to receive an annual lease fee of $15,000, and to sweeten the pot, for every State Liners game ticket sold online, $1 will go directly to the city. That’s definitely a win-win situation!

Members of the Council Weigh In

Before the vote took place, Councilmember Mahlon Luttrell made sure to share his connection to the local baseball scene. He currently serves as the president of Bristol Baseball and the State Liners, emphasizing that this agreement is specifically with Boyd Sports, not his current organization. “I’ve had a 23-year association with Major League Baseball, along with college baseball,” Luttrell shared with a touch of pride.

Another council member, Mark Hutton, expressed some initial concerns about the finances of the deal but later changed his mind after reviewing the details of the agreement. “I had some reservations and questions about it, but I now fully support it,” Hutton remarked, feeling optimistic about the positive impact this will have on the community.

What’s Next for Tod Houston Memorial Field?

Thanks to the formalization of this agreement, along with an impressive $8 million commitment from the City, Major League Baseball, and the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education, renovations to Tod Houston Memorial Field are all set to move forward into the next exciting phase.

For everyone in and around Bristol, the future looks bright for local sports, and this partnership is sure to bring more joy and opportunities to our community. Keep your eyes peeled for all the action coming to Tod Houston Memorial Field!