Bengals Involved in Major Announcement on Thursday

The battle between the Cincinnati Bengals and Hamilton County to keep the franchise in downtown Cincinnati drags on though a major breakthrough was reached on Thursday.

Two AFC North teams have ongoing battles within the state of Ohio impacting the future of the franchise and their home stadiums. Both the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals have battled their own county oversight regarding potential renovations and moves in their respective situations. 

Thursday, the latter announced significant progress that will help keep their team nestled alongside the Ohio River. 

The board of Hamilton County commissioners approved a tentative framework for a $470 million agreement that would keep the Bengals at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati through 2036. 

Funding will be used to complete renovations for the stadium that opened in 2000. Bengals Executive Vice President Katie Blackburn released a statement following Thursday's breakthrough. 

"We thank the Hamilton County Commissioners for supporting this agreement to ensure Paycor Stadium remains an excellent venue and a focal point for Cincinnati's riverfront," Blackburn said. "We are proud to call Paycor Stadium our home and to keep our future here in Cincinnati, where it belongs."

Talks gained steam in recent days with a key June 30 lingering ahead. The Bengals had until Monday to extend their lease that will expire after the upcoming season. This resolution gives the two sides more time to discuss the finalized terms of the next lease agreement. 

Hamilton County's contributions will be up to $350 million. The Bengals and NFL together will contribute the remaining $120 million. 

The team and the county are seeking state funds for the project though none have been approved yet. Nonetheless, the two sides made much needed progress with Thursday's announcement.