Cleveland has spent about $36 million on emergency repairs to the Browns’ lakefront stadium since 2016, according to city records reported by Ideastream Public Media. More expenses are expected before the team leaves the downtown facility.
The city’s 2026 repair bill is about $1.1 million, making it one of the least expensive years of the past decade. From 2016 through 2025, Cleveland averaged approximately $3.7 million a year in stadium repair costs.
The work has included concrete and plumbing repairs along with replacement or repair of air-conditioning equipment, gutters, doors, fire alarms and pedestrian ramps.
Emergency Repairs Continue at Lakefront Stadium
Because Huntington Bank Field is owned by the city, Cleveland remains responsible for qualifying emergency repairs under its lease with the Browns. The team sometimes pays contractors first and is later reimbursed by the city.
City Council introduced legislation in August to reimburse the Browns for the latest work. A council vote could occur as soon as September 14.
Cleveland also budgets for other stadium-related expenses, including insurance, property taxes and remaining construction debt.
The Browns have started construction on their planned new stadium in Brook Park. Even so, the team expects to continue playing at the downtown lakefront stadium through at least the 2029 season.
Browns Plan to Remain Through at Least 2029
The existing lease includes an option that could allow the Browns to remain through 2031 if additional time is needed. Team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam reached a $100 million agreement with Mayor Justin Bibb in 2025 to end litigation surrounding the team’s move.
Until the Browns leave, the city and team say their focus is on repairs necessary to keep the aging stadium safe and operational.
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