Millions needed for Browns Stadium repairs even during new stadium talks

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CLEVELAND (WJW) – The FOX 8 I-Team has uncovered a new request for millions of dollars in repairs for Browns Stadium.

But, this comes as the Browns are already considering making big renovations or building a domed stadium. So, we investigated.

We found the city could soon pay for what are called “emergency repairs” to Browns Stadium. That will cost $3.7 million.

This comes to light with debate raging over how much longer the Browns will play on the lakefront.

The organization has talked about moving games to Brook Park, building a dome or making major renovations to the stadium.

“All we can do is ask the questions. Getting the answers, that’s another uphill battle,” said Cleveland City Councilman Brian Kazy.

Councilman Kazy says next week the council will consider paying for new emergency repairs to the stadium.

Most of the work listed involves replacing and fixing pedestrian ramps where fans walk. Other work listed includes gutter replacement and hot water tank replacement.

Kazy wonders about sinking millions of tax dollars into the stadium if the Browns stop playing there when their lease runs out in a few years.

“We don’t want to start making big capital repairs knowing that the stadium won’t be used beyond 2028. That’s a question that needs to be answered sooner rather than later,” the councilman said.

This week, the mayor of Brook Park opened up to the I-Team, talking about the possibility of a dome there.

“The experience would be enhanced, fans would be able to tailgate and walk to the stadium instead of… taking maybe an hour to get to your seat,” Brook Park Mayor Ed Orcutt said.

We reached out to the Cleveland mayor’s office about the request to pay for the latest repairs for the stadium. 

A council ordinance shows the city can do the work, or the Browns can do it and get reimbursed.

Money for the work comes from a city set aside for these kinds of projects.

Also this week, the head of the Muni Lot Browns Backers spoke of what fans are thinking for the future of the stadium.

But now, the future could first involve paying for a few million dollars worth of repairs.

We also reached out to the Browns for comment on this story.

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Ed Gallek

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