The potential expansion of Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City is set to undergo a feasibility study on the south end zone.
The stadium is home to the Utah Utes college football team, which plays in the Pac-12 Conference.
The University of Utah released its plans to carry out the review, which will include a market analysis, cost estimates and funding models to determine a business plan that will support any proposed changes.
The south end zone is the only area unchanged since the stadium opened in 1998. A reconstruction could include replacement of locker rooms, equipment storage and media rooms, and space for medical services and hospitality opportunities. The study will consider the feasibility of additional suites, lodges, fan interaction and concession areas, including connecting the east and west concourses.
“Understanding the market, costs and feasibility will help us better prepare for the future of the stadium,” said University of Utah president, David W Pershing.
“There’s still much work to be done before taking steps toward renovation. We have to know if the market will support this kind of expansion.”
The 45,807-capacity venue has sold out every football game since the beginning of the 2010 season, and has a 98 per cent season ticket renewal rate.
The study is said to provide the university with data that could be used to evaluate demand and determine potential revenue sources, including private donations and ticket revenue.
“We want our football team to be successful and our fans to have the best experience possible,” said the university’s athletic director, Chris Hill. “This feasibility study will help us better understand how we continue to do all of that in the future.”
