Syracuse University in New York has this week unveiled plans to invest $118m (€98.9m/£87.1m) in improvements to its multi-use stadium.
Scheduled for completion in the autumn of 2020, the university said the project will focus on creating “a new stadium experience for students, faculty, staff, alumni and fans alike” at the 49,000-capacity Carrier Dome.
The initiative forms the next stage of the $255m West Campus transformation strategy launched back in May 2016, with stadium enhancements set to include a new fixed roof, a vertically hung scoreboard, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, improved accessibility and added Wi-Fi capabilities.
The investment will also include $6m worth of improvements for disabled fans, with plans for a new accessible entrance, updating the current elevator, adding five electric door operators, installing closed captioning software, as well as introducing new accessible seating.
Kent Syverud, chancellor of the university, said: “This is a great day for Syracuse University as we take a significant step in advancing the goals contained in our Campus Framework, a 20-year roadmap designed to align our vision and mission with our physical space.
“Creating a new stadium experience is a key element to supporting a vibrant and diverse campus community.
“I am excited for our students—undergraduate and graduate—who will receive their degrees in front of their families and friends, for the student-athletes who will compete in this space and for the thousands of individuals who will visit our campus for athletic events, concerts and other activities.”
Elsewhere, new air conditioning, accessible restrooms and concessions space will also be added, but not be fully operational until autumn 2022.
John Wildhack, director of athletics at the university, added: “As the only stadium in the country that is home to five sports, including two women’s sports, this transformation is really a game-changer for Syracuse University athletics.
“The transformed facility will afford our coaches and athletics staff the tools necessary to continue attracting student-athletes who perform as well in their academics as they do in their respective sports.
“I am especially thankful that the university will work closely with our department to limit disruption to our home athletic events.
“Though we’re still working through a timeline, we are hopeful that the impact on our teams will be minimal.”
Image: Syracuse University
Share this