University Florida Eyes $400M Renovation To ‘Gators 'Swamp’: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

NYSJ Sports-Entertainment Business News Service

Photo: UFloridaJuly 3, 2023: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, aka The Swamp, home to the University of Florida Gators football team since it opened in 1930, is preparing to under go a major renovation.

AD Scott Stricklin said today that, “After a series of exhaustive studies and evaluations, the University Athletic Association is preparing to select an architect to begin the design phase of what will be the largest facility project in the history of the department.”

Financial estimates for the project, “which will adhere to University policies and procedures during all phases, begin at approximately $400 million. The financial model will be similar to previous Gator facility projects with an aggressive fundraising campaign to anchor the funding efforts.”

The venue also underwent less extensive renovations in 2003, 2011, 2015 and 2017.

'We've conducted a number of studies over the last five-plus years about what the future could look like for Ben Hill Griffin Stadium," said Stricklin via the University.

”We've engaged with vendors that specialize in iconic venues and stadium experience for both fans and players while offering a variety of solutions. It is now time to take that information and engage with an architect who can present renovation, construction and phasing options for The Swamp."

The University of Florida Gators football team has won three national titles and has a .629 winning percentage.

Gatorade was created in 1965 by a team of scientists at the University of Florida’s College of Medicine to replenish the carbohydrates that the school's student-athletes burned.

According to the University, while the architectural team will deliver the specifics, the project will “touch every phase of the fan experience.

“From upgrades to the concourse, entry gates, seating, concessions and restrooms to enhancements to video board and sound system, there will be a focus on maintaining the nearly century-long romance Gator fans have with Saturdays in the Swamp.”

The search for the next architect starts with a formal selection process coordinated with UF Campus Planning, Design and Construction Office, and will begin in July. The architectural team will also develop planning strategy and phasing components of the project.

"There are many questions that come with a project of this scope, but it would be premature to speculate on the answer to many of those, including but not limited to final costs, seating capacity and specific timeline," said Stricklin.

"We look forward to working along with an architect that will start providing options on what those answers could look like and allow us to continue to host college football's biggest and best fans in in The Swamp."

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