Penn State fans longing for an upgrade to Beaver Stadium may be getting their wishes.
University President Neeli Bendapudi announced Friday morning at a Board of Trustees meeting that major renovation is being considered for the place that’s been Penn State’s home since 1960.
According to a news release, upgrades would have multiple phases and could expand the stadium’s use beyond Penn State football.
The plan has to be formally given to Penn State’s entire Board of Trustees so the board can vote on it soon.
Bendapudi said that “after extensive research and consultation, renovation for Beaver Stadium is the direction we walk to take as it is far more economical than a new build.”
Additionally, Bendapudi said none of the project would be “funded by tuition, student fees, or any of our educational budget.”
”I know there is a lot of interest in this project,” she said, “and we are still at the beginning of a multi-year journey, which still must include proposal review and approval by the board of trustees. Athletics also will need to put the project out for bid.”
Bendapudi said Penn State’s fans are “some of the most dedicated and loyal in the world” and “deserve a facility that has upgrades, amenities and improved circulation around the facility to enhance the fan experience.”
Beaver Stadium’s atmosphere is widely regarded as one of the best in college football, and some would say it’s No. 1. But to many Penn State fans, the stadium’s infrastructure is outdated, unsafe and in need of an overhaul. Bendapudi said she’s committed to “do what we must to preserve one of our most iconic spaces in most economical way possible.”
Per Bendapudi, Penn State’s isn’t ready to reveal the project’s financial projections yet.
Beaver Stadium’s most recent renovation took place in 2001. That year, the university added 60 skyboxes in a three-level structure on the east side of the stadium.
