Bengals Commit to Cincinnati in $470 Million Paycor Stadium Renovation Deal with County Official

The Cincinnati Bengals and Hamilton County officials have reached a preliminary agreement to invest $470 million in renovations to Paycor Stadium. This tentative deal ensures that the Bengals will remain in Cincinnati for at least the next 11 years.

Although the agreement marks a major milestone for the team and the city, it still requires formal approval from both the Bengals organization and Hamilton County commissioners. The original lease was set to expire in June 2026, but both parties have agreed to extend the negotiation deadline to solidify the arrangement.

Team Commitment and Balanced Funding Define New Paycor Stadium Renovation Agreement Terms

Bengals executive vice president Katie Blackburn described the agreement as a “significant day” for the franchise and the local community. She expressed gratitude toward the Hamilton County Commissioners for supporting the deal and highlighted the importance of keeping Paycor Stadium a vital part of the Cincinnati riverfront. Blackburn emphasized the team’s commitment to staying in the city and continuing to call Paycor Stadium their home.

The proposed renovation cost of $470 million is significantly less than the $830 million originally requested by the Bengals. According to the deal, Hamilton County will contribute $350 million, while the Bengals will cover the remaining $120 million.

Both parties plan to seek additional financial support from the state to further fund the stadium improvements. The decision to lower the renovation budget reflects a more balanced investment between the public and private sectors.

Planned Upgrades Aim to Modernize Paycor Stadium and Enhance Fan Experience

Specific details about what the stadium renovations will entail were not released by the county. However, the Bengals have previously mentioned potential upgrades, including enhancements to club lounges, stadium suites, concession areas, and scoreboards. These improvements are expected to modernize the fan experience and ensure the stadium remains competitive with newer NFL venues.

Paycor Stadium has been home to the Bengals since 2000 and was originally known as Paul Brown Stadium, named after the team’s founder. In August 2022, the stadium was renamed after the Bengals sold the naming rights. This new agreement extends the team’s commitment to Cincinnati and highlights the stadium’s continued importance as a hub for sports and entertainment in the city.