University of Memphis unveils major changes to stadium project

By Omer Yusuf – Reporter, Memphis Business Journal

June 20, 2025

University of Memphis athletic director Ed Scott announced several major updates to the ongoing Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovation on June 20.

Among the latest additions are a 300-level club featuring an open-air bar, a state-of-the-art videoboard more than 260 feet long, a suspended kitchen on the 200 level, and renovations to the north end tunnel.

Scott said the project cost has increased from $220 million to $226.5 million. Despite the increase, the renovation remains on track for completion ahead of the 2026 football season.

Revenue potential and design changes

The renovation, which began in May 2024, will now be completed in two phases instead of the originally planned three.

Scott pointed to the north end tunnel and suspended kitchen as key drivers of the cost increase.

The tunnel renovation is designed to allow access for 18-wheelers, enabling the stadium to host large-scale concerts and events. Expanding non-football uses is a central goal of the project, with events like an upcoming concert already scheduled at the venue.

“The benefit of that is new revenue that supports the university, the athletic department, and the City of Memphis,” Scott said.

The University of Memphis now owns the stadium, further emphasizing the importance of maximizing its year-round use.

Funding and capacity changes

Scott said the university has raised $31 million toward the project so far, bringing total secured funding to about $201 million.

The renovation is supported by a $120 million contribution from the State of Tennessee through the City of Memphis, along with a $50 million donation match from the Fred Smith family. The university is responsible for raising the remaining $50 million.

During construction, stadium capacity has been reduced from 58,000 to about 33,000 for the next two seasons. Once completed, capacity is expected to be approximately 45,600 — down from earlier plans of 50,000 due to design changes.

Construction progress

Scott said the project has remained on schedule in part due to early procurement of materials.

“We ordered key structural materials well in advance,” he said. “That helped us avoid cost increases and delays tied to supply chain issues.”

In May, a $75 million permit was filed for construction of the stadium’s new west side tower.

Construction services are being handled by Barton Malow Builders, along with Memphis-based Grinder, Taber & Grinder and Allworld Project Management.