The Cleveland Browns are exploring the possibility of building a state-of-the-art dome stadium in Brook Park as a potential long-term solution for their home games. With their current lease set to expire after the 2028 season, the team has been diligently evaluating various options to enhance the fan experience and positively impact the Northeast Ohio region.

The stadium journey began in 2017, and with the recent release of the City of Cleveland's proposal for a renovated stadium, the discussion around the Browns' future home has gained momentum. The team is currently evaluating this proposal and has requested additional information to thoroughly consider the renovation plan.

While the lakefront site, where the team currently plays, remains a consideration, significant improvements would be needed to ensure the stadium's sustainability and bring it up to state-of-the-art standards. Moreover, operational limitations and infrastructure challenges present additional hurdles for a renovation project of this scale.

However, the more attractive and transformative option being explored by the Browns is the construction of a new domed stadium in Brook Park. The estimated cost for this innovative project is a whopping $2.4 billion, creating a modern and dynamic venue that would greatly enhance the fan experience. The domed stadium would position Cleveland and the State of Ohio to compete for major events throughout the year.

Beyond the stadium itself, the vision includes a large-scale lifestyle and entertainment district with features like experiential retail spaces, residential areas, hotels, and other unique attractions. This ambitious development is expected to draw visitors year-round and generate a substantial economic boost for the region.

To bring such a monumental project to fruition, the Browns understand the importance of a public-private partnership. The team is proposing a 50-50 partnership on the stadium, with private investments exceeding $1.2 billion, making it the largest private per capita stadium investment ever seen in the country. In addition, a privately funded phased development worth approximately $1 billion is planned, further enhancing the region's economic growth.

Crucially, the Browns are committed to innovative funding mechanisms that do not tap into existing taxpayer-funded resources, ensuring that other important community needs are not sidelined. These mechanisms will leverage the fiscal impact of the project and the unprecedented private contribution to support public investment and generate significant returns for Brook Park, Cuyahoga County, and the State of Ohio. Furthermore, the funding model sets aside future revenues generated by the project to maintain the stadium's longevity.

While the possibility of relocating the stadium to Brook Park may have a short-term impact on downtown Cleveland, the Browns believe that the year-round activity of a domed stadium can still bring positive economic benefits to the city. Additionally, the team is engaged in ongoing dialogue with the City of Cleveland to explore the optimal use of the lakefront, even if the stadium is eventually moved.

The response to the proposed Brook Park dome vision has been overwhelmingly positive from fans, elected officials, and business and civic leaders. The prospect of combining the stadium with the city's efforts to modernize Hopkins airport and reimagine the lakefront has the potential to greatly accelerate the momentum of Northeast Ohio.

The Cleveland Browns are committed to working closely with Cleveland, Brook Park, and other public partners to ensure that the stadium solution is a long-term success for everyone involved. As the evaluation process continues and a final decision approaches, the team remains grateful for the ongoing support of their passionate fans.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Browns navigate through this exciting chapter and shape the future of football in Cleveland and the Northeast Ohio region.