Syracuse University has announced plans to transform the look of its Carrier Dome stadium with a US$118m investment that will introduce a new fixed roof, a vertically hung center scoreboard, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and improved connectivity.
The 49,250-seat stadium, which opened in 1980, currently has an air-supported domed roof that has to be inflated at all times but a new cable truss system supporting a solid outer material that incorporates PTFE to allow in natural light has been sketched out.
The new roof will allow the Carrier Dome’s operators to hold more events such as concerts – for which it is currently difficult to get equipment into the building as the venue requires air locks – while also eliminating the risk of collapse from heavy snow in winter.
The stadium investment was approved by the university’s board of trustees and forms part of the greater US$255m West Campus transformation strategy at Syracuse announced in 2016.
“This is a great day for Syracuse University as we take a significant step in advancing the goals contained in our Campus Framework, a 20-year road map designed to align our vision and mission with our physical space,” said Chancellor Kent Syverud.
“Creating a new stadium experience is a key element to supporting a vibrant and diverse campus community. I am excited for our students—undergraduate and graduate—who will receive their degrees in front of their families and friends, for the student-athletes who will compete in this space, and for the thousands of individuals who will visit our campus for athletic events, concerts and other activities.”
The Carrier Dome is home to five sports and the upgrades, which are expected to be completed by 2020 are said to not affect the football, basketball or lacrosse schedules.
Other planned upgrades include air conditioning, new accessible restrooms and new concessions space.
“Replacing the aging roof is really just the tip of the iceberg,” said Pete Sala, vice president and chief facilities officer in the Division of Business, Finance and Administrative Services.
“The visitor experience will be completely transformed. From the enhanced natural lighting in the facility to the ease at which the scoreboard can be viewed, from the new lighting and sound systems to the added restrooms and concessions, our visitors can expect nothing short of a first-class experience.
“My team and I are eager to get this project underway and we look forward to providing our visitors an experience unlike anything they’ve had on our campus before.”
May 16, 2018
