‘We’ve been waiting for this’: Groundbreaking ceremony held for Richmond Flying Squirrels’ new home

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Sweet sounds of celebration filled the air at the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Richmond Flying Squirrels’ new home on Friday.

On Friday, Sept. 6, city leaders and community members came together for the big event, which took place a few days after officials announced the new stadium will be called CarMax Park .

The groundbreaking for Carmax Park took place just a few yards away from The Diamond, which is still the current home of the Flying Squirrels. However, it won’t be for long as work has just begun on their new home.

The day was considered a home run for long time Flying Squirrels fans Alexis and Jimmy Mimms, and they described exactly how they feel about a day that has been so long in the making.

“We are celebrating this monumental moment! We’re excited. We’ve been waiting for this,” Alexis Mimms said.

Flying Squirrels leaders like Todd Parnell agree that Friday’s event comes after a time when the future of the Flying Squirrels wasn’t always so clear.

“For 15 years, I dreamt about what this would feel like, and it feels pretty damn good, to be honest,” Parnell said.

It was not that long ago that Major League Baseball insisted that, if the Flying Squirrels did not get an updated stadium by the appropriate deadline, it would be “game over” for the team in Richmond.

“So, for this to actually happen and not cancel baseball,” Alexis Mimms said. “I’m sorry. I’m just. I’m excited. I am excited that we’re not losing baseball.”

The new 67-acre stadium will feature several social areas, a beer garden, a kids’ zone and even outfield seating.

“I am excited about being able to maybe go to a concession and still see the ball game going on and not miss it,” Alexis Mimms said.

Leaders say the field will do more than just host baseball games. Other events like concerts, festivals and community gatherings will also take place there.

The afternoon groundbreaking marked the end of “Flying Squirrels” week, which had recently been proclaimed by the city’s mayor.

CarMax Park is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2026 Minor League Baseball season.

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