ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) – Major League Baseball’s deadline is fast approaching for Asheville to have financing in place for a potential $30 million McCormick Field overhaul. On Monday, Buncombe County commissioners revealed a financing plan that includes state legislators approving a bill to create a stadium improvement grant fund. Newman said it’s likely millions from hotel tax revenues will go into the pot, along with millions from the city of Asheville and Buncombe County coffers, if all goes according to plan. The Tourist’s owners have previously reported McCormick Field, which is owned by the city, ranks in the league’s 10% least upgraded ballparks. County commissioners, along with city council members, said they have received community support for using public dollars to finance mandated improvements. It’s unclear exactly what percentage the franchise owners will have to invest as negotiations continue.
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