Cleveland mayor ‘deeply disappointed’ by Browns’ move to Brook Park

CLEVELAND (WJW) – Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb spoke publicly Thursday about his disappointment in the Haslams’ decision to move the Cleveland Browns out of the city.

The FOX 8 I-Team learned Thursday afternoon that the Browns decided to move the stadium from the lakefront and build a dome in Brook Park .

Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb spoke about the decision Thursday at 2:30 p.m., clearly saddened by the decision.

Bibb explained that he had a meeting with Jimmy and Dee Haslam on Wednesday night in which they expressed their intent to relocate to Brook Park.

“The Haslams’ choice to move the team away is frustrating and profoundly disheartening,” Bibb said. “In the past two years, this administration made relentless efforts to craft solutions that advance both [Haslam Sports Group’s] objectives and long-term interest of our residents and the broader community.”

Bibb continued by saying in part, “I am deeply, deeply disappointed that [with] our exhaustive efforts, the Haslam Sports Group has chosen a move to Brook Park. They had the opportunity to reinvest in Cleveland, transform the current stadium into a world-class facility, enhance the fan experience and remain highly profitable. We put those options on the table in good faith. But unfortunately, that was not enough.”

According to Bibb, this decision came 48 hours after the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Clinic broke ground on a project that will bring the Cavs practice facility back into Cleveland.

Bibb said that he and the city remain committed to keeping the Browns in Cleveland if Brook Park is not viable.

“To the residents, fans and small businesses out there that depend on those Browns games, I want you to know this: I stand with you. I’m fighting for you. We have exhausted every single option to keep the Browns in our great city,” he said.

The news also comes ahead of a big weekend for the city. The Cleveland Guardians are looking to mount a comeback in the American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees at Progressive Field. The game is set to begin at 5:08 p.m. on Thursday.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will also be held Saturday in Cleveland.

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