The University of South Florida has released the first renderings of its planned $340 million stadium on the Tampa campus.
The university also disclosed that it has terminated a $14.8 million design-build agreement for the football stadium with the construction firm Barton Malow, The Tampa Bay Times reports.
Officials said the university ended the design-build agreement because it wanted to change from “a design/build project delivery model to a construction management model.” The university says the new model will give it more direct access to all design elements and more control over cost efficiencies.
The architect that was part of the design-build team--Populous--will remain part of the project, the univesity said.
Despite the change, the university says the stadium still is on track to open in fall 2027.
The university says the initial stadium renderings it has released are conceptual and will evolve as the design process continues.
Some of the features planned for the stadium:
- An east-west orientation to help maximize shade for daytime events.
- A dedicated section for students in the west end of the stadium that features bullhorns and amenities that will cater to the student experience.
- An open concourse around a majority of the stadium that provides views of the field, even as fans are walking to concession or restroom areas.
- A large tailgating space on the north side of the stadium.
- A variety of premium seating options, including suites, loge boxes and club areas.
More specific distinctive stadium features will be shared as the design process moves forward into a more advanced stage.
“The design elements and amenities unveiled today all reflect our goal to build a stadium that provides the best possible experience for our students, alumni and entire fan base,” said Vice President of Athletics Michael Kelly.
The university has raised more than $43 million of its $50 million goal for the stadium project.
The Tampa General Hospital Center for Athletic Excellence, an operations facility that will be adjacent to the new stadium, is scheduled to be ready by August 2026. The building will serve as the daily home for the football and women’s lacrosse teams.
