Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to Undergo Historic Renovation
The University of Florida released plans Thursday for renovating Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, and the upgrades carry a hefty price tag.
Expected to be the most expensive stadium renovation in college football history, the university’s Board of Trustees announced a $1.45 billion plan after originally projecting $400 million in 2023, a 262% increase.
Previously, the most expensive completed college venue renovation cost $474 million at California Memorial Stadium. Penn State is undergoing a $700 million upgrade to be completed in 2027.
“This $1.45 billion project will breathe new life into one of the nation’s most iconic college football venues and elevate it into the premier college athletic destination that sets the standard for everyone else,” UF Board of Trustees chair Mori Hosseini said in a statement.
The project will be funded through private giving, capital reserves, project-generated revenues and financing mechanisms, including long-term debt to maintain “the long-term financial health of Florida Athletics.”
The goal is “to preserve The Swamp while preparing it for future generations.” The 88,000 capacity will remain the same while creating more suites and improving entrances, concourses and concessions.
“This project represents an incredible opportunity to modernize and elevate the experience at one of the most iconic venues in sports while protecting the traditions that make it special,” UF athletic director Scott Stricklin said. “We are excited about the momentum surrounding this project and what it will ultimately mean for our fans, student-athletes and the future of Florida Athletics. The Swamp will be bigger, better and louder.”
The Swamp opened its doors in 1930, undergoing several improvements over its nearly 100-year history.
While the last stadium renovations occurred in 2012 to improve the West Concourse, the last time seating was added to Ben Hill Griffin was 2003, when Florida spent $50 million to add club, press and suite seating funded by private support.
Originally thought of in 2018, the COVID-19 delayed action. However, the Board of Trustees met at 4 p.m. Thursday for approval of the plan ranging from 2027 through 2030.
“The UF Board of Trustees will be taking the first important steps today toward launching the long-awaited and much anticipated renovation of our beloved Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, aka The Swamp,” Hosseini said.
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