121 Financial Ballpark Outfield Expansion (Project NEXT)
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball Club | Jacksonville , FL
OSPORTS is providing professional design services for renovations at 121 Financial Ballpark, focusing on enhancing the right field, center field, and home plate areas. Situated in the heart of Jacksonville, this beautiful ballpark is ready to support more fan activity and year-round use, given its proximity to downtown and the Jumbo Shrimp’s success as a Triple-A club.
Dubbed Project NEXT, this initiative marks the first major renovation at 121 Financial Ballpark since its establishment in 2003. While aiming to meet MLB requirements, Project NEXT will revolutionize the Crustacean Nation fan experience. Key features include the new Right Field Building, the PNC Home Plate Club, and the inviting New Center Field Front Porch, positioned as the primary entrance for fans and a focal point of activity. These enhancements will welcome fans to the ballpark in unprecedented ways. The new multi-level building in right-field will house the Jumbo Shrimp VyStar Credit Union Souvenir Store on the street level and offer a versatile space for banquets and meetings on the concourse level, further enhancing downtown Jacksonville's offerings.
The project scope includes renovations to the lobby, hospitality, and spectator areas, as well as Jumbo Shrimp/administration facilities, and operations and support facilities. The improvements promote exploration of the ballpark through experiential areas such as the new CF fan plaza, food and beverage locations, kids’ spaces, and interactive elements. The project demands expertise in venue operations, food service, scheduling around baseball games, and capturing the lively essence of a Minor League venue.
A core element of this design-build project includes layering storytelling and history throughout to uniquely identify with the City of Jacksonville. OSPORTS’ designs cleverly incorporate elements of the distinctive Jumbo Shrimp brand, featuring shrimp boats and a private hospitality club. Emphasizing fun, typical of AAA baseball, these upgrades aim to create the most exciting center field in Minor League Baseball by the 2025 season.
The renovations to the ballpark will be transformational, repositioning the facility as one of the nation's premier venues. Additionally, Project NEXT lays the groundwork for future development in and around the city’s sports and entertainment district.