Miami-Dade commissioners approve Dolphins stadium deal

Stephen Ross and Sun Life Stadium
Stephen Ross and Sun Life Stadium

Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross’ five-year quest to get funding for Sun Life Stadium renovations ended Tuesday, when Miami-Dade commissioners approved the latest proposed agreement between the county and team.

The commission voted 7-4 to provide an extended subsidy package in exchange for Ross covering the $350 million cost of improvements. The Dolphins plan to start working on the stadium in July, with the bulk of improvements occurring during the team’s 2015 and 2016 off-seasons. Miami-Dade would reward the Dolphins with bonuses for attracting major events, including $4 million for hosting a Super Bowl.

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Hotel taxes would fund the bonuses, according to the Miami Herald. The agreement covers the next 20 years.

“Having a modernized facility means the Dolphins can play here for many years to come,” team CEO Tom Garfinkel said. [Miami Herald]Eric Kalis