Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovations underway, where the project stands
By Omer Yusuf – Reporter, Memphis Business Journal
May 30, 2024
Renovations at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium — home of the Memphis Tigers football team — are officially underway as May comes to a close.
University of Memphis interim athletic director Jeff Crane confirmed that construction began May 29 in a video announcement.
“We’re so excited about what lies ahead here at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium and look forward to keeping you up to date. Go Tigers Go,” Crane said.
The first phase of the project focuses on renovating the stadium’s existing East Side Suite Level Two. This work will allow media and game-day operations to move from the West Side, preparing the site for the next phase of construction.
Phase 1 is expected to cost between $8 million and $10 million and is targeted for completion ahead of the 2024 football season. Memphis is scheduled to open the season Aug. 31 at Liberty Stadium against North Alabama.
The University of Memphis aims to complete the full $220 million renovation by the start of the 2026 football season.
During construction, stadium capacity is expected to drop from about 58,000 to 30,000 over the next two seasons. Once completed, the stadium will have a capacity of approximately 50,000.
Of the total project cost, $120 million is being provided by the State of Tennessee through the City of Memphis. The remaining $100 million will come from private sources, including a $50 million commitment from the Fred Smith family, which will be released once the university raises a matching $50 million.
Crane said earlier this month that the university had raised about $20 million toward that goal.
“Our goal is to reach that initial $25 million before the end of the summer so we can start demolition as soon as possible,” he said. “The quicker we can start, the quicker we can finish.”
Once that initial fundraising milestone is reached, Phase 2 will move forward. Plans for that phase include additional premium seating, more private suites, and a new “party plaza” area designed to enhance the game-day experience.