Myrtle Beach, January 7, 2026
Myrtle Beach is investing $20 million in extensive renovations at Pelicans Ballpark to enhance facilities in line with Major League Baseball standards. These upgrades aim to improve player development, support local baseball and strengthen community engagement. The project will also enhance the fan experience through modern amenities, positioning Pelicans Ballpark as a key venue for local events and gatherings, ultimately benefiting the local economy.
Myrtle Beach is witnessing a significant undertaking aimed at enhancing one of its most cherished community assets: Pelicans Ballpark. This extensive $20 million renovation project is currently transforming the home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a move poised to secure the future of local baseball and invigorate community engagement. The commitment to these upgrades reflects a proactive approach by local leadership to ensure that vital civic infrastructure continues to serve residents and visitors alike, fostering both athletic excellence and vibrant community life.
Such an investment highlights the power of local initiative in adapting to evolving standards and seizing opportunities for community growth. By addressing the requirements set forth by Major League Baseball, Myrtle Beach demonstrates a dedication to maintaining its standing as a hub for quality sports entertainment. This endeavor is not merely about facility improvements; it is a testament to the collective vision for a thriving local environment where personal initiative and strategic planning lead to enduring benefits for everyone.
A Vision for the Future of Local Baseball
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans Ballpark renovations are a comprehensive effort with an estimated cost of $20 million. These upgrades are designed to keep the Pelicans at the forefront of minor league baseball, ensuring the ballpark remains a modern and appealing venue. The project, which commenced its offseason renovations in September 2025, is a crucial step for the long-term viability of the team within the city.
Meeting Nationwide Standards for Player Development
A primary driver for these extensive renovations stems from Major League Baseball’s (MLB) mandate for updated Professional Development League (PDL) standards across all minor league facilities nationwide. These standards were introduced to improve player development conditions and encompass a range of enhancements. Key requirements include the provision of on-site weight rooms, appropriately sized batting cages, pitching tunnels, and dedicated dining facilities. Furthermore, the mandates specify devoted locker room facilities for women, recognizing the increasing presence of women in coaching, managing, and umpiring roles within minor league baseball. Without these crucial upgrades, the Pelicans faced the risk of losing their affiliation with MLB. The deadline for compliance with these standards was 2025.
Local Leadership and Collaborative Investments
Pelicans Ballpark has been a jointly owned asset since 1998, with the City of Myrtle Beach holding a 70% stake and Horry County owning 30%. Discussions surrounding the renovations and a new lease agreement have involved both entities. Initially, Horry County had expressed its intent to transfer its 30% ownership to the City of Myrtle Beach, contingent on a new lease for 20 years or more and the completion of over $20 million in stadium improvements. The county also proposed contributing up to $6 million under certain conditions. However, more recent developments indicate that Horry County has opted out of the Pelicans lease agreement, moving to sell its share back to the city. This shift means the City of Myrtle Beach is now exploring options to assume full responsibility for future maintenance costs and secure a new 30-year lease agreement with the team, demonstrating strong local leadership in preserving this important community asset.
Enhancing the Fan Experience and Community Hub
Beyond meeting player development requirements, the renovations are also focused on significantly upgrading the fan experience. Planned enhancements include improved seating, modernized concession stands, and the integration of advanced technology, such as high-definition video boards and improved sound systems. Infrastructure upgrades are also underway to ensure the stadium can comfortably accommodate larger crowds and provide better accessibility for all attendees. These improvements are expected to not only enhance baseball games but also attract a wider array of Myrtle Beach SC events, including concerts and other community gatherings. This increased activity is anticipated to generate substantial economic impact, stimulating local businesses and creating employment opportunities, thereby contributing to the overall economic vitality of Myrtle Beach.
Securing the Pelicans’ Long-Term Home
The ongoing negotiations have also focused on securing a long-term lease for the Pelicans. While an initial agreement for a one-year extension was granted to allow for continued discussions, the city has been working towards a new long-term commitment. A 20-year lease would entail an annual payment of $750,000. The city’s current efforts are centered on a 30-year lease agreement, which would see annual rental payments from the team set at $750,000 for the first ten years, increasing to $850,000 in years 11-20, and then $950,000 in years 21-30. This long-term agreement is vital for providing stability for the team and ensuring that local baseball remains a beloved part of the Myrtle Beach community for decades to come.
A Brighter Future for Pelicans Ballpark
The extensive renovations at Pelicans Ballpark represent a significant investment in the future of Myrtle Beach. Through proactive local leadership and a clear vision for enhancing both player facilities and fan experiences, the city is ensuring the Pelicans remain a cornerstone of local entertainment and a catalyst for community growth. This commitment not only maintains a beloved sports tradition but also strengthens the economic fabric of Myrtle Beach by creating a modern, versatile venue for a wide range of Myrtle Beach SC events. We encourage all residents and visitors to support the Pelicans and stay engaged in the exciting developments unfolding at our revitalized ballpark.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total cost of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Ballpark renovations?
The current renovation project for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Ballpark is estimated to cost $20 million.
Why are these renovations necessary for Pelicans Ballpark?
These renovations are necessary to meet updated Professional Development League (PDL) standards mandated by Major League Baseball (MLB) nationwide, ensuring improved player development conditions and maintaining the team’s MLB affiliation.
What types of improvements are included in the renovations?
The renovations include new clubhouses, a performance center, field enhancements, on-site weight rooms, batting cages, pitching tunnels, dining facilities, dedicated locker rooms for women, improved seating, upgraded concession stands, high-definition video boards, improved sound systems, and overall infrastructure upgrades for accessibility.
Who owns Pelicans Ballpark?
Pelicans Ballpark has been jointly owned by the City of Myrtle Beach (70%) and Horry County (30%) since 1998. The City of Myrtle Beach is now working towards acquiring Horry County’s share and assuming full ownership.
What is the duration of the new lease agreement for the Pelicans?
The City of Myrtle Beach is working to secure a new 30-year lease agreement for the Pelicans, following previous short-term extensions.
Key Features of the Pelicans Ballpark Renovation
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | $20 million | Local |
| Renovation Purpose | Meet MLB Professional Development League (PDL) standards and enhance fan experience. | Nationwide (PDL standards), Local (fan experience) |
| Player Facilities | New clubhouses, performance center, field enhancements, on-site weight rooms, batting cages, pitching tunnels, dining facilities, women’s locker rooms. | Nationwide |
| Fan Experience Upgrades | Improved seating, upgraded concession stands, high-definition video boards, improved sound systems, accessibility enhancements. | Local |
| Ballpark Ownership | Historically 70% City of Myrtle Beach, 30% Horry County. City now pursuing 100% ownership. | Local |
| New Lease Term | Aiming for a 30-year lease agreement. | Local |
| Economic Impact | Expected to attract more events, stimulate local businesses, and create jobs. | Local |
| Compliance Deadline | $20 million in upgrades needed by the start of the 2026 season for PDL standards. | Nationwide |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
