The Bristol State Liners, owned by Boyd Sports, are set to gain a new home as plans for a multi-use baseball stadium in Bristol, Virginia, move forward. This development is the result of a collaboration between Boyd Sports and the Bristol, Virginia City Council.

Earlier this year, Boyd Sports acquired the collegiate summer baseball team, and now, its CEO, Chris Allen, has announced plans to construct this state-of-the-art facility on an expansive 8.73-acre plot along Bob Morrison Boulevard. “We believe this location is ideal for a baseball facility,” Allen expressed. “Even if we had the chance to choose again, this site would still be our top pick for the new ballpark.”

The plot, currently valued at $1.1 million, will host a stadium whose design is projected to cost around $12 million. Far from being a mere baseball venue, this multi-use stadium aims to serve a variety of purposes. It will not only be the home ground for the Bristol State Liners but will also accommodate the Virginia High School baseball team and serve as a venue for concerts and other events.

The endeavor has seen active collaboration with the City Council, as confirmed by Mayor Becky Nave. This partnership underscores their commitment to enhancing the community’s recreational infrastructure and providing a versatile space for various activities.

The City Council has been working with Boyd Sports on the project, according to Mayor Becky Nave.

“We are excited about the opportunity as they [Boyd Sports] come in as a partner for this and will run the facility as a whole, so we’re excited for that partnership,” Nave said.

Boyd Sports plans to meet with local architecture firms to design the stadium with an estimated 2,500-person capacity. Stadium amenities would include suites, climate-controlled areas for parties and functions, a turf athletic field, and more.

“The history of the park there, it’s got such a rich history with all the teams,” Allen told News Channel 11. “It made a lot of sense that it would be a good story to tell once we bring that stadium back, and you know, we’re going to bring all the new bells and whistles in a new ballpark.”

Nave said prior to Tuesday’s City Council meeting that the council was leaning “in favor” of the proposal.

“I feel as though for the most part, everyone is on board,” Nave said. “Everyone is really excited about bringing baseball back to Bristol, Virginia.”

The State Liners have been using the TVA Credit Union Ballpark in Johnson City as a temporary facility until they can build a permanent one.

Nave said the council is excited to bring the State Liners back to Virginia.

“While it’s great for Bristol, Virginia, it’s a win-win for all of us,” Nave said. “Baseball has a tradition in Virginia between our Virginia Bearcats, Major League teams, Minor League teams; to bring baseball back to Virginia is huge for our community.”