University of Tennessee details renovation plans for stadium

US education establishment the University of Tennessee has announced plans to renovate its iconic Neyland Stadium.
 
Originally built in 1921 with a capacity of 3,200, the facility has undergone 16 expansion projects over the years, with the most recent being completed in 2010 at a cost of almost $150m (£122m/€136.5m). The stadium now has a total capacity of 102,455, which makes it the fifth largest stadium in the US and sixth largest in the world.
 
The UT Athletics department of the University of Tennessee carried out a nine-month assessment of the potential for further work, and has now concluded that renovations can take place.
 
Dave Hart, vice-chancellor and director of athletics at the university, said: “The groundwork has been laid for proceeding with a much-anticipated investment in Neyland Stadium. The study encompasses all the essential elements to ensure that Neyland Stadium remains a preeminent college football destination and experience for current fans and future generations alike.”
 
The plans have been based on feedback from the study, with the new design to preserve both the heritage and identity of Neyland Stadium, while at the same time modernising and enhancing certain aspects of the venue.
 
Work will begin at field level, progressing upward and around the concourse, with the stadium now set to benefit from enlarged restrooms and concessions stands, better optimising the use of spaces under and around the lower seating bowl. Upon completion, Neyland Stadium will retain an official capacity in excess of 100,000.
 
The University of Tennessee Board of Trustees recently approved an initial phase package of $106m to be funded by donor gifts and athletics department operating revenues.
 
The first phase has a target completion date of August 2019 and includes south concourse expansion and renovation, movement of the south field wall, visiting team locker room relocation, addition of kitchen and commissary, lower/lower west bowl infrastructure rebuild, hospitality area upgrades, upper bowl handrail augmentation, electrical transformer replacement, and storm sewer line repair.
 
“When people think about Tennessee football, they think about Neyland Stadium,” Hart said. “The tangible care and attention given towards this Knoxville landmark is critical in maintaining a special environment and the significant impact that Neyland Stadium has on our football programme, University and entire Volunteer community.”