Overview

• The Cleveland Browns are seeking $600 million in state bonds for a $2.4 billion enclosed stadium in Brook Park, backed by over $1 billion in private investment.
• Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne has formally requested $350 million from the state to renovate the existing downtown lakefront stadium, arguing it is a more cost-effective option.
• State budget analysts and independent auditors have criticized the Browns’ financial projections, calling their 1.5 million annual visitor estimate overly optimistic and raising constitutional concerns about the bond proposal.
• Governor Mike DeWine prefers funding stadium projects through increased sports betting tax revenue rather than state borrowing, aiming to reduce taxpayer exposure.
• Brook Park officials are advancing traffic and infrastructure studies for the proposed stadium site, with an estimated $80 million in improvements needed near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.