New Athletics Ballpark Breaks Ground in Las Vegas

The Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas marks a significant shift in Major League Baseball, promising a modern stadium designed to blend with the city’s vibrant atmosphere. This project, spearheaded by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and HNTB, is set to redefine the fan experience.

Stadium Design and Features

The forthcoming 33,000-seat Athletics Ballpark is strategically positioned between Tropicana and Reno Avenues. The design intends to capture the essence of Las Vegas and the spirit of baseball. The roof structure, designed with five overlapping shell-like shapes, mirrors traditional baseball pennants. These forms also serve to manage the environment, reducing glare and introducing natural light through north-facing windows.

New Athletics Ballpark, Designed by BIG and HNTB, Breaks Ground in Las Vegas https://t.co/8C5y9bI0Q3 #architecture #sportsarchitecture #stadium #lasvegas #big @archdaily pic.twitter.com/sHk5iXh3qK

— World Architecture (@worldarchdaily) March 22, 2024

“The architectural vision is supported by a broad team of collaborators, including Thornton Tomasetti, Henderson Engineers, CAA ICON, Mortenson, and McCarthy Building Companies.”

— Original Source

The ballpark’s architecture will also feature a cable-net glass wall, which opens the venue to its surroundings, integrating the stadium with the city’s energy. The design will feature a split-tier configuration, taking cues from historic venues such as Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. This is set to provide fans with closer views of the field. Recent reports indicate that stadium construction costs have risen 20% in the last year (Statista 2024).

Additional Details

The new stadium, slated to open before the 2028 MLB season, will be the team’s permanent home. In addition to standard seating, it will incorporate premium suites, club seating, and family-friendly zones. The venue will also be a multipurpose facility capable of hosting a variety of events.

Long-term plans include an on-site hotel and casino, positioning the ballpark as a significant component of Las Vegas’s entertainment district. These projects highlight the growing trend of sports venues as multifaceted entertainment hubs.