The Cleveland Browns have announced their plans to relocate and build a new stadium in Brook Park.
The Cleveland Browns have had a disappointing start to the 2024 season. After making the playoffs for just the second time in the last 20 years in 2023, the Browns have begun the season 1-5.
The fans that have attended games in downtown Cleveland received more unfortunate news on Thursday, as the team informed the city that they plan to build a new domed stadium in Brook Park, OH.
After the city pushed for the Browns to stay in Cleveland, reportedly even offering the team a $1.2 billion proposal to completely renovate their current stadium, they have instead decided to move to the suburban Brook Park and build an entirely new venue.
The team had originally revealed their plans for the new stadium in August.
Mayor Justin Bibb made the official announcement to the public in a press conference, where he expressed his disappointment.
"The city's approach has always been rooted in fiscal responsibility and the long-term value for all members of our community," said Bibb. "As such, I am deeply, deeply disappointed that our exhaustive efforts, that the Haslam Sports Group has chosen to pursue a move to Brook Park."
Dee and Jimmy Haslam, who own the franchise, addressed their decision in a statement.
"We've learned through our exhaustive work that renovating our current stadium will simply not solve many operational issues and would be a short-term approach," the Haslams said. "With more time to reflect, we have also realized that without a dome, we will not attract the type of large-scale events and year-round activity to justify the magnitude of this public-private partnership."
