CLEARWATER — The city has announced that the BayCare health care group has come aboard as its naming rights partner for The Sound, the 4,000-seat concert amphitheater in Coachman Park.
The Clearwater City Council is expected to vote on whether to approve the nearly $5.45 million deal at its March 7 meeting.
“BayCare is an important part of our community,” Mayor Brian Aungst Sr. said when the deal was announced on Feb. 27. “Not only is Clearwater home to their corporate headquarters, but they are also the naming rights partner for our Phillies spring training facility and now our amazing waterfront concert venue.”
If approved by City Council, “The BayCare Sound” name and logo will be used throughout the park, directional signs, websites, social media, and public media, officials said.
BayCare Co-Chief Operating Officer Lou Galdieri said the amphitheater branding initiative “furthers our shared commitment of investing in the communities we serve and together building healthier, more active and engaged communities across all of West Central Florida.”
On March 3, 2022, the city council approved a contract with the Superlative Group to identify sponsorship opportunities following completion of construction of Coachman Park. Superlative negotiated a 10-year contract with increasing compensation, starting at $475,000 in the first year and increasing by 3% annually, officials said.
Over the 10-year term, the city will receive approximately $5.45 million for the naming rights of the venue from BayCare. The agreement will expire at the conclusion of the 10-year term, requiring the city to identify a new venue sponsor, with BayCare having the option to request a 10-year extension of the existing contract.
“Having such a well-respected community institution associated with this community treasure is the perfect fit,” said Susan Crockett, CEO of Ruth Eckerd Hall, which programs The Sound for the city.
