University of Tennessee Athletics
Phase II of Stadium Renovations on Schedule
July 16, 2008 | Football
Neyland Stadium Construction Photos
The University of Tennessee announced Wednesday that Phase II of the Neyland Stadium master plan is on schedule for completion prior to the home opener on Saturday, September 13. UTAD began Phase II of the renovations on Neyland Stadium in December.
Phase II includes concourse renovations and the creation of a mezzanine on the first level west side of the stadium, renovations to the locker room, the addition of a field level Lettermen's Room and new media center as well as brick work around the field level. The bid for Phase II was awarded to Knoxville-based Johnson & Galyon.
"Neyland Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of Tennessee fans everywhere. Over the past 87 years, it has grown to become one of America's greatest football stadiums," said Mike Hamilton, men's athletics director. "I believe these renovations will enhance the fan experience for years to come."
In November 2004, UTAD unveiled its master plan for Neyland Stadium, which will serve as a long-term solution to issues currently facing Neyland Stadium and prepare the stadium for the next 75 years.
Phase I began in November 2005 and was completed for the 2006 season. Phase I included much needed improvements to basic infrastructure amenities such as water, electric and sewer throughout the stadium as well as concourse renovations near gate 21, which feature wider concourses, new and renovated restrooms as well as new concession stands. Phase I also included the addition of the East Club, which is a primary funding source for the initial renovations.
The long-term master plan will improve the Neyland Stadium experience for all fans while enhancing safety and security. The improvements include:
- Renovation and widening of concourse areas to assist in traffic flow and make fans' experience more enjoyable;
- Addition of family restrooms;
- Increase in the current number of women's restroom facilities by almost 300 percent;
- Addition of concession stands;
- Creation of entry plazas;
- Addition of club seats; and
- Update of the infrastructure for water, electric and sewer systems.
Numerous ADA issues also have been addressed to improve access for all fans, including the eventual addition of new elevators.
The master plan was created in a phased approach. Each phase is independent to ensure that funding is available for each phase before it begins. The renovations should take approximately eight to 12 years to complete, provided funding is available.
Several specific revenue streams were designated to fund the future of Neyland Stadium and the continuance of Tennessee's prominence on the national stage. Funding sources for the project include philanthropic gifts and bonds to be serviced by a combination of annual athletics department revenues. The addition of club seating will be a major funding source for the renovations, providing more that $28 million in private gifts and over $2.5 million in annual revenue to service improvement bonds. Funds generated from the 2004 sideline seating policy change also will be used for the renovations.
The University of Tennessee athletics department is one of only a handful of athletic departments in the country that receives no funds from state subsidies or taxes.
