Project Overview
The Illinois Renaissance Project, the renovation of Historic Memorial Stadium, is one of the most ambitious projects launched in University of Illinois history. Already several years into the planning process, university and athletic department personnel have diligently researched and evaluated similar projects at other schools around the Big Ten and the nation. Working closely with architectural firm HNTB, a veteran of numerous renovation projects, thorough market and design research have culminated in the formation of a master plan that will result in a modern, yet carefully preserved, Historic Memorial Stadium.
Construction, to be conducted so as to minimize its impact on Illinois football Saturdays, is set to commence following the completion of the 2006 football season. It is anticipated that all renovations, including the addition of luxury seating on the stadium’s west side, will be completed in time for the 2008 football season.
As plans are being finalized, great care is being taken to ensure that every Illinois fan will benefit from the renovated stadium. The primary goal of the project is to provide an enhanced game day experience for all those in attendance. New concourses, wider aisles, and increased and improved restroom and concession facilities will be features of the newly renovated Memorial Stadium.
As a landmark of significant historical value, another of the project’s primary concerns is the proper treatment and due care paid to the historical aspects of the stadium. The legendary colonnades, stately brick façades, and proud ramp towers will remain as they have always been: an enduring tribute to the men and women of the state of Illinois.
With total costs of approximately $116 million, the Memorial Stadium renovation will be paid in large part through the pre-sales of the west stadium’s new luxury seating opportunities. The annual cash flow from the luxury seating will provide the resources necessary to pay down the debt on newly issued 30-year bonds. In addition, a recently launched private capital campaign is underway, featuring naming opportunities within the renovated stadium, to provide additional funding. No state or tuition assessments will be used to finance the renovation project.
Though plans continue to evolve, specific improvements include:
East Stadium
- A modernized Great East Hall.
- Increased concessions facilities.
North Stadium
- A new permanent seating structure featuring 5,000 seats.
- A concourse level, including restrooms and concessions, connecting the stadium’s two sides.
- Additional space to be used for the expansion and renovation of the existing football facilities, etc.
West Stadium
- A modernized Great West Hall featuring increased restrooms and concessions.
- A new upper concourse in the stadium’s balcony.
- Addition of the Colonnades Club, exclusive outdoor club luxury seating.
- Addition of the Memorial Stadium Pavilion, a three-tiered press box/hospitality facility, featuring the 77 Club and Memorial Stadium Suites.
Miscellaneous Improvements
- A gated entryway system that will improve the game day experience by enhancing crowd circulation and making stadium access more functional.
