Cleveland, October 21, 2025
In a special meeting, the Cleveland City Council convened to discuss the lease agreement concerning Huntington Bank Field. Key terms and future implications for the stadium’s operations were addressed, highlighting the significance of the agreement for local sports and community events. Council members expressed their views on the necessity of the lease in sustaining operations and improving the facility for fans and teams alike, aiming for a transparent decision-making process that considers the interests of all stakeholders involved.
Cleveland City Council Holds Special Meeting on Huntington Bank Field Lease Agreement
Cleveland, Ohio – On October 20, 2025, the Cleveland City Council convened a special meeting to discuss the lease agreement concerning Huntington Bank Field, the current home of the Cleveland Browns. This meeting aimed to address key terms and future implications for the stadium’s operations.
Key Terms of the Lease Agreement
- Financial Payments: The Haslam Sports Group (HSG), owner of the Cleveland Browns, is set to pay the City of Cleveland a total of $100 million. This includes an initial payment of $25 million by December 1, 2025, and an additional $5 million annually from January 1, 2029, to January 1, 2033, totaling $25 million over five years.
- Stadium Demolition: HSG will bear the cost of demolishing the current Huntington Bank Field, estimated at $30 million, to prepare the site for redevelopment.
- Community Investment: Upon termination of the lease, HSG commits to investing no less than $2 million annually over the next 10 years in mutually agreed community benefit projects, amounting to at least $20 million.
Infrastructure and Development Support
The agreement outlines mutual support for infrastructure plans related to road and air travel, particularly concerning the new stadium in Brook Park, the modernization of Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport, and the development of the Cleveland lakefront, including the redevelopment of the Burke Lakefront Airport property. Both parties have agreed to dismiss all lawsuits related to the Browns’ move to Brook Park, Ohio.
Background Context
The Cleveland Browns have been planning to construct a new domed stadium in Brook Park, adjacent to Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport, with the goal of opening in time for the 2029 NFL season. The current lease at Huntington Bank Field is set to expire at the end of the 2028 season. The new stadium project is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the lakefront area and stimulate economic development in the region.
In early October 2025, the City of Cleveland and HSG reached a $100 million agreement to facilitate the Browns’ move to Brook Park. This agreement includes financial contributions from HSG to accelerate the lakefront transformation and prepare the current stadium site for redevelopment. The city has committed to supporting the timely completion of the new stadium and related infrastructure projects.
The special meeting held by the Cleveland City Council was a critical step in finalizing the lease agreement and ensuring a smooth transition for the Browns to their new home in Brook Park.
FAQ
What is the total financial commitment from the Haslam Sports Group to the City of Cleveland?
The Haslam Sports Group is set to pay the City of Cleveland a total of $100 million. This includes an initial payment of $25 million by December 1, 2025, and an additional $5 million annually from January 1, 2029, to January 1, 2033, totaling $25 million over five years.
Who is responsible for demolishing the current Huntington Bank Field?
The Haslam Sports Group will bear the cost of demolishing the current Huntington Bank Field, estimated at $30 million, to prepare the site for redevelopment.
What is the planned opening date for the new stadium in Brook Park?
The new stadium in Brook Park is planned to open in time for the 2029 NFL season.
What is the purpose of the community investment by the Haslam Sports Group?
Upon termination of the lease, the Haslam Sports Group commits to investing no less than $2 million annually over the next 10 years in mutually agreed community benefit projects, amounting to at least $20 million.
What infrastructure projects are included in the agreement?
The agreement outlines mutual support for infrastructure plans related to road and air travel, particularly concerning the new stadium in Brook Park, the modernization of Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport, and the development of the Cleveland lakefront, including the redevelopment of the Burke Lakefront Airport property.
Key Features of the Lease Agreement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Payments | HSG to pay $100 million to the City, including $25 million by December 1, 2025, and $5 million annually from 2029 to 2033. |
| Stadium Demolition | HSG responsible for demolishing current Huntington Bank Field at an estimated cost of $30 million. |
| Community Investment | HSG commits to investing at least $20 million over 10 years in community benefit projects upon lease termination. |
| Infrastructure Support | Mutual support for infrastructure plans related to the new stadium, airport modernization, and lakefront development. |
| Legal Settlement | Both parties agree to dismiss all lawsuits related to the Browns’ move to Brook Park, Ohio. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Cleveland Browns Set for New Domed Stadium After Settlement
Author: Construction FL News
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