Building permit filed for renovation crucial to U of M strategy to diversify revenue

By Omer Yusuf – Reporter, Memphis Business Journal

October 17, 2025

A $6 million building permit has been filed for a key phase of the ongoing $226.5 million renovation of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.

Michigan-based Barton Malow Builders filed the permit to renovate the stadium’s north end tunnel. The venue, owned by the Auxiliary Services Foundation on behalf of the University of Memphis, serves as the home of Tigers football.

The permit outlines plans for a new field access tunnel at the north end of the stadium. The upgraded tunnel will be open-air at both ends and stand 16 feet tall, covering approximately 3,000 square feet.

University of Memphis athletic director Ed Scott said the renovation is intended to accommodate large concert productions. The existing tunnel is not large enough to allow 18-wheelers to access the field — a key limitation for hosting major touring acts.

Expanding the stadium’s ability to host concerts and events is part of a broader strategy to generate revenue beyond football games.

Project progress

Phase 2 of the Liberty Stadium renovation began in summer 2024, with completion targeted ahead of the 2026 football season.

Barton Malow previously filed a $75 million permit for construction of the stadium’s new west side tower in May, as well as a $4 million permit for additional work on that structure earlier in the year.

As construction continues, stadium capacity has been reduced from about 58,300 to approximately 39,000. Once the renovation is complete, capacity is expected to be around 45,600.