This Week in Jacksonville - Business Edition: Jumbo Shrimp owner talks game-changing season, affordable fun

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition host Kent Justice caught up with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp owner Ken Babby.

With a jaw-dropping $31.5 million renovation of the Vystar Ballpark under their belts, Babby couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for opening day. He highlighted the standout feature of the revamped park: the shrimp boats, which he boldly claimed are “the best seats in the house.”

Babby’s mission? To create a space that screams Jacksonville and elevates the fan experience to a whole new level.

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But it’s not just about flashy renovations; Babby also dove into the nitty-gritty of public-private partnerships that made this all possible.

With the city of Jacksonville chipping in a cool $31 million, he’s all about making the ballpark a hub of affordable family fun — think $5 tickets and $2 hotdogs. As the Jumbo Shrimp gear up for the new season, Babby reflected on Jacksonville’s growth and the team’s role in the community, emphasizing that it’s all about engaging fans and delivering unforgettable experiences at the ballpark.

Get ready, Jacksonville. Babby believes this season is shaping up to be a game-changer.


About the Author
Kent Justice headshot

Kent Justice co-anchors News4Jax's 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts weeknights and reports on government and politics. He also hosts "This Week in Jacksonville," Channel 4's hot topics and politics public affairs show each Sunday morning at 9 a.m.

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