UA Board Gives OK to $160M Stadium Expansion
by June 17, 2016 8:46 am 190 views
The University of Arkansas Board of Trustees has approved a $160 million stadium renovation and north end zone addition for Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville.
The proposal, which would increase capacity from 72,000 to 76,000, was approved by trustees Thursday. The work is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2018 football season.
The project will be funded entirely by athletic revenues, gifts and bond proceeds from a future $120 million bond issue, according to the UA’s preliminary financing plan. Bonds will be repaid over a 20-year period using athletic revenues generated from the stadium.
The remaining cost not financed by the bond will come from athletic funds for design and pre-construction work ($10 million), the Razorback Foundation ($10 million) and capital commitments for the new suites ($20 million).
The project scope, according to the UA, includes:
North end zone. The north addition will include new suites, loge boxes, club seats and club areas. The east and west concourses will connect to allow the flow of patrons around the stadium, as well as provide new concessions and restrooms. Additional and expanded entrances will improve patron flow. A new game day locker room, training room and pre/post game support rooms will be added for the football team.
Stadium updates. New elevators will be installed at the northeast and northwest corners to service the existing east and west suites, club areas, and upper level seating. Existing suites and club areas will be renovated and updated. A new video board will be added at the south end of the stadium. Security and safety systems will be enhanced.
Frank Broyles Athletic Center. The Broyles Center will be affected by the larger north end zone project, and will be rebuilt in the new north end. The Broyles Center will still house the administrative offices, along with space that can be used for ticketing, merchandise, and Razorback history and traditions.
Razorback Stadium was built in 1938 and has expanded over the years to its current capacity.
The last expansion and renovation was completed in time for the 2001 season, with the addition of the south end zone and east side seats, suites and club seats, adding about 21,000 seats.
The stadium currently has 134 suites, varying in size with most being 12, 18 or 24 seats. Suites are currently sold out on a season basis.
To see the slide presentation made to the board of trustees Thursday, click here.