ST. PETERSBURG, FL – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) today released the following statement on the Tampa Bay Rays and the City of St.Petersburg's announced deal for a new stadium in downtown St. Petersburg:

"St. Petersburg and Pinellas County have an incredible opportunity to improve the economic outlook for local residents, grow small businesses and connect neighborhoods through the redevelopment of the historic Gas Plant district with the help of the Tampa Bay Rays and a new ballpark.  St. Pete and the Rays properly envision a vibrant community with more housing that is affordable and walkable, and safe connections to South St. Petersburg, Sankofa, downtown, Edge district and surrounding neighborhoods.

"The scrappiness of the Rays on the field and their winning record reflects the people of the Tampa Bay area well - we work hard and enjoy life. As Tampa Bay’s Congresswoman, I couldn’t be more excited for the future and am committed to lifting our neighborhoods with better infrastructure, transit and investment."