Neyland Stadium renovations to begin in Summer 2018

Administrators and trustees at the University of Tennessee are preparing to discuss a $340 million renovation plan to Neyland Stadium this week according to Rachel Ohm of the Knoxville News Sentinel.

The makeover will include updates to concession stands, bathrooms, and seating on the south end of the stadium, as well as ‘enhancements to the fan experience.’ While the project is awaiting approval from Tennessee’s board of trustees, it is officially slated to begin in the Summer of 2018.

According to Ohm, Tennessee Athletic Director John Currie will speak to the Athletics Committee and present the official plans on Thursday afternoon.

The first phase of renovations will cost around $180 million, far more than the original $106 million it was originally projected to cost. However, thanks to some additional funding, the overall project will cost $10 million less than previously anticipated.

According to the Knoxville News Sentinel, the renovations will include:

• Expansion and renovation of the south concourses of the stadium

• More restrooms along expanded south concourses

• More concession stands throughout south concourses

• New entry towers/gates and plaza areas in the southwest and southeast corners

• Improved stadium exterior to better integrate the stadium into the architectural fabric of campus

• Adjusted south endzone field wall to improve player safety and conform to NCAA guidelines

• Kitchen and commissary to enable on-site catering and the delivery of fresh food

• Premium spaces, such as open-air suites, a filed-level club and ledge seating to meet market demands and capitalize underutilized space

The last major renovations to take place at Neyland Stadium were a three phase project that lasted from 2004-2010 on the west concourse of the stadium. The final phase, completed ahead of the 2010 season, included updated club and skybox seating as well as the creation of the gate 21 plaza and the Tennessee terrace overlooking Peyton Manning Pass.