Richmond, VA — Yesterday, the City of Richmond, in partnership with the Richmond Economic Development Authority (EDA), Navigators Baseball, LLC (Richmond Flying Squirrels), and project stakeholders, celebrated the official opening of CarMax Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Centerfield Gates.

The ceremony, which preceded the Flying Squirrels’ 2026 home opener, marked a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of the Diamond District into a vibrant, mixed-use sports and entertainment destination.

“We are thrilled to finally cut the ribbon and open the gates on this stunning anchor to what will surely be a corridor-of-choice for residents and visitors near and far,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “Walking through the park, seeing the joy and feeling the energy, it’s impossible not to get excited about what the park means for this area and for our City, and I can’t wait to see how the Diamond District continues to unfold over the coming years.”

CarMax Park, the new home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, is designed to host thousands of fans while also supporting a wide range of events, from concerts and festivals to community gatherings and corporate experiences, positioning the venue as a year-round destination.

Project & Partnership 

The development of CarMax Park is the result of a strong public-private partnership between the City of Richmond, the Richmond Economic Development Authority, and the Richmond Flying Squirrels.

Construction of the stadium was led by Gilbane Building Company as general contractor, with project management led by Navigators Stadium Developer LP through Machete Group, ensuring delivery of a modern, multi-purpose venue built for both game day and year-round activation.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was emceed by Squirrels General Manager Anthony Oppermann and featured brief remarks and participation from key partners, including representatives from CarMax, Richmond Flying Squirrels leadership, Major League Baseball, and City leadership.

Participants included:

• Mayor Danny Avula
• Cynthia Newbille, Richmond City Council President and 7th District
• Katherine Jordan, Richmond City Council 2nd District
• Stephanie Lynch, Richmond City Council 5th District
• Nicole Jones, Richmond City Council 9th District
• Angie Rodgers, City of Richmond Department of Economic Development
• Ben Rothrock, Chief Operating Officer, Richmond Flying Squirrels
• Lou DiBella, President & Managing General Partner, Richmond Flying Squirrels
• Sarah Lane, Chief Marketing Officer, CarMax
• Morgan Sword, Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations, Major League Baseball

“CarMax Park is an incredible addition to Richmond and a powerful reflection of our city’s energy and momentum,” said Angie Rodgers, Director of Economic Development for the City of Richmond. “We’re excited to kick off the season in this amazing venue and to see the continued transformation of the Diamond District come to life.”

Looking Ahead 

As the first major component of the Diamond District to open, CarMax Park sets the stage for continued investment and development across the area, including future residential, commercial, and hospitality projects led by Thalhimer Realty Partners/Diamond District Partners.

In the coming months, Richmonders will begin to see additional construction surrounding the ballpark, including a new street grid and additional infrastructure improvements. This infrastructure will serve Phase 1A of the Diamond District, which includes The Doma, a new 274-unit multifamily development, and a trophy office building; both of which will be supported with a new structured parking garage adjacent to both parcels. Plans also include a 180-key hotel, more than 30,000 square feet of retail, and 163 units of affordable housing.

Together, these investments will shape a connected, dynamic neighborhood that attracts visitors, supports local businesses, and enhances the quality of life for Richmond residents.

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About CarMax Park 

CarMax Park is a state-of-the-art stadium and the new home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. With capacity for 10,000 fans, 26 premium suites, and flexible event spaces, the venue is designed to host everything from baseball games to year-round events and experiences.