Richmond leaders celebrate the placing of final steel beam for CarMax Park

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond leaders were joined by Richmond Flying Squirrels officials and lead contractors for the CarMax Park Topping Out Ceremony on Thursday.

The event was held in celebration of the final steel beam being placed on the primary building structure for the new sports stadium. It also coincided with The Diamond Stadium's 40th anniversary.

(Photo: Mark Morales, 8News)

With a major milestone for the Flying Squirrels' stadium now being achieved, many officials reminisced about the role The Diamond has played in Richmond's community spirit. Richmond Flying Squirrels Managing General Partner Lou DiBella compared the structural completion of CarMax Park to the foundational work being done for the city's expansion and growth.

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"When we put that last beam up and the structural work is complete on our ballpark, we've done a lot to complete the development and structural work in making this the best Richmond, the best city, this can be," DiBella said.

The park is expecting to open in time for the Flying Squirrels' 2026 season. Officials say it will not only serve as a new ballpark for the city's minor league team, but also a multi-use venue hosting hundreds of events year-round.