New details are emerging in the growing fight over the Cleveland Browns’ proposed domed stadium next to Hopkins International Airport.
Last week, the Ohio Department of Transportation denied a key permit, arguing the stadium would be too tall and could interfere with air traffic. That decision came despite the Federal Aviation Administration giving the project the green light.
According to Cleveland.com, the recommendation to deny the permit came from Bryant Francis, Cleveland’s Director of Port Control, who oversees Hopkins. Francis, appointed by Mayor Justin Bibb, argued the stadium would not only pose potential safety concerns but also create traffic chaos for travelers trying to reach the airport on game days.
The city has been pushing to keep the Browns on the downtown lakefront, where their current stadium sits. Meanwhile, state lawmakers have approved $600 million in funding for the dome project, which could cost more than $2 billion overall.
The dispute is now heading to the courts, with the Browns still eyeing an early 2026 groundbreaking. Team officials say they hope the new stadium will be ready in time for a 2029 season opener, but major hurdles remain before construction can begin.