The Penn State Board of Trustees has approved a US$700 million renovation plan for Beaver Stadium, the outdoor college football stadium on Pennsylvania State University’s campus. The project will involve replacing video boards, improving field lighting, and adding a new welcome center.
The university states that this multi-year, multi-phase renovation will enhance revenue opportunities, improve the fan and community experience, and support future funding for all 31 athletic programs at Penn State. The approved renovations aim to enable year-round use of Beaver Stadium, further boosting economic growth and development in the surrounding area.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am delighted to share there is overwhelming support for the University’s recommendation to renovate Beaver Stadium,” said Board of Trustees chair Matt Schuyler. “I’m pleased that the renovation will benefit our student-athletes, elevate Beaver Stadium’s significance in driving local and state economies, and ensure Beaver Stadium remains a premier facility in all of college athletics.”
Populous was selected as the architect for the project in October 2023, with a joint venture of Barton Malow, AECOM Hunt, and Alexander serving as the construction manager.
“Many recognize Beaver Stadium as the best stadium in college football, and we want to preserve the atmosphere that our fans, alumni, and community have come to expect while building on this history of excellence for generations to come,” said Penn State president Neeli Bendapudi. “The renovations will have a wide variety of positive impacts on our community, help us remain a national leader by attracting top student-athletes, and continue serving as a symbol of belonging and pride for students across the Commonwealth.”
The project will be carried out in three distinct phases over the next three football off-seasons and will introduce a new mix of seating options and improved amenities, such as restrooms and concessions.
“With home football games averaging US$16.2 million in tourism and economic growth in our region, the potential return on investing in a premier football stadium is significant,” said Patrick Kraft, vice president for intercollegiate athletics. “
Beyond the increased ability to host major events year-round as we ‘winterize’ the stadium and build inventory, the experience for our fans will be greatly enhanced while providing the facilities our football program needs to continue competing at the highest level. I am grateful for the support of President Bendapudi and Penn State’s Board of Trustees in making this investment for the future of our university community and athletics programs.”
Kraft emphasized that improved circulation to reduce congestion and a focus on modernizing safety and operational standards are critical to the stadium’s redesign. In line with Penn State’s commitment to global sustainability, the Beaver Stadium renovations will be designed with high standards for energy efficiency, construction, and operation, with a commitment to achieving LEED certification.
Importantly, a new welcome center is planned for the community, including a 21,000ft² facility for events. This will serve as a connection point for the community and support enrollment efforts for prospective students and future student-athletes.
Including the initial stage of the Beaver Stadium renovation, approved in May 2023, the total project will cost no more than US$700 million and will be completed before the 2027 college football season. This multi-year project is financed and paid for entirely by Intercollegiate Athletics.
Penn State Athletics is one of a few self-sustaining intercollegiate athletics departments nationwide, meaning no tuition dollars or educational budget funds will be used toward the renovations. The entire project will be funded through fundraising, concessions, naming opportunities, sponsorships, and ticket sales, including new premium seating options to be added during the renovation.
