Strike two: Bristol Virginia leaders quash stadium plans

Bristol, Virginia leaders are backing out of the batter’s box, ending the work to develop and build a stadium first proposed in October.

A statement issued by city offices said requirements, financing and debt were the factors in stopping any momentum for a potential new and permanent home for the Appalachian League’s Bristol State Liners, whose owners, Boyd Sports, announced in November that the team would not play in 2026.

It’s the second strikeout for the ball club with two proposed projects canceled by the respective cities in seven months time. Bristol Tennessee had two proposals for the company- first, a new multi-purpose stadium project at Whitetop Creek Park fell through, then renovations at Tod Houston Field were dismissed.

The statement also said the city will work on DeVault Stadium and Bryce Cox Field to provide Virginia High School with a “superior baseball facility.”