Poll of the week. Can a new stadium improve attendance?

We've all heard about the Rays continued attendance struggles. Will a new stadium help? Vote now.

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Comments

[Jessie]

Nothing impacts attendance more than winning, of course, but curiosity would draw some at least in the early years.

[John]

Let me remind you, the Rays couldn't even sell out their 2nd freaking game of inagural season, even before the 10 years of losing. If that doesn't make it clear, I don't know what will. The novelty wears off VERY fast around here, and it's not worth a half billion dollar gamble to find out.

[Thomas]

There is a clear trend in MLB attenance for new stadiums.

The attendance swells for one year, then immediately returns to it's previous average.

Winning teams, not stadiums, are what attracts fans.

(All numbers from ESPN.com)

Pittsburgh PNC Park - Opened 2001

2000: 21,787
2001: 30,742
2002: 22,594

Milwaukee Miller Park - Opened 2001
2000: 21,919
2001: 34,704
2002: 24,310

Cincinnati Great American - Opened 2003
2002: 23,197
2003: 29,077
2004: 28,237
2005: 23,989

Philadelphia Citizens - Opened 2004
2003: 28,973
2004: 40,598
2005: 33,313

San Diego Petco - Opened 2004
2003: 25,062
2004: 37,531
2005: 35,400 (Won NL West)
2008: 28,630

Washington - Opened 2008
2007: 24,217
2008: 29,141

So the "if you build it, they will come" line is true. But after they get there once, they'll go right back to what they were doing before.

[Ray F]

Each of those numbers presented an increase in attendance from the year prior to the new park. Some fairly significant.

[Joe M]

While we are not a major part of the discussion, those of us who are east of Tampa can add a significant boost to attendance if given the chance. As much as I would like to attend multiple games to watch the Rays, it is nearly a 3 hour drive at rush hour to get to St. Pete. I realize that the Mayor would love to get the tax revenue, it's really the Rays who need to figure out how best to increase their fan base.

I'll head to St. Pete once a year for baseball, but don't expect me, or others from the Orlando market, to make enough trips to impact the revenue in a significant way.

The kids over here are beginning to know the players and follow the success. But think about packing up the minivan with a bunch of kids for an all day trip to the baseball park. And then think about that ride home.....