The New Orleans Zephyrs and Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District (LSED) finalized a lease extension Wednesday, to keep the team at Zephyr Field through the 2016 season.

The Zephyrs and LSED had agreed to an outline of a new lease extension last month, and signatures made the agreement official on Wednesday, bringing to an end negotiations with the state that had lasted throughout the summer.

"We are thrilled to officially have a deal in place," said Zephyrs general manager, Mike Schline. "Recent times have made things difficult financially, but it's great to have the LSED be so receptive and to reaffirm our commitment to New Orleans."

The Zephyrs' previous lease was set to expire at the end of the 2011 season.

The Zephyrs will open the 2010 season on Thursday, April 8 at 7 p.m. against the Round Rock Express. For more information, please contact the Zephyrs at (504) 734-5155.

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