Plans to renovate Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at the University of Florida are poised to clear a significant milestone this week, with the institution’s Board of Trustees set to approve the project’s advancement. The scheme is now operating within an approximate budget of $1.45b.
If confirmed, it will become the most expensive stadium renovation in the history of college football. Funding is expected to be drawn from a blend of private philanthropy, capital reserves, project-generated revenues, and long-term financing mechanisms — the latter subject to approval by the Florida Board of Governors.
The decision will allow the project team, comprising Legends Global as owner’s representative, alongside a joint venture between Manhattan Construction Group and Hunt Construction Group, both appointed by Florida Athletics, to proceed with detailed design work, pre-construction planning, and preparatory activity ahead of the formal approval process. Full project sign-off is expected to go before the Board of Trustees in September.
“This $1.45 billion project will breathe new life into one of the nation’s most iconic college football venues,” said Board of Trustees chair Mori Hosseini, “and elevate it into the premier collegiate athletic destination that sets the standard for everyone else.”
The multi-phased renovation will deliver expanded concourses, upgraded concessions and restrooms, improved accessibility, enhanced premium hospitality, and state-of-the-art video and audio systems. A comprehensive overhaul of team facilities is also planned, covering locker rooms, lobby and lounge spaces, training areas, practice courts, and roof replacement.
Construction is expected to begin following the 2026 season, with completion targeted before the 2030 campaign. A central condition of the project is that Florida Football will remain at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium throughout — with the Gators continuing to play in The Swamp during each active construction phase, though certain areas may be temporarily unavailable.
Notably, the stadium’s current capacity of 88,548 will be maintained. Earlier documentation had suggested a reduction would be necessary to achieve ADA compliance, though that position has since been revised.
Regarding the project’s heritage commitments, Florida Athletics wrote to supporters in April: “Preserving the defining elements of The Swamp is a central priority — including maintaining the historic Orange Wing Walls that frame the stadium and contribute to its iconic look. Equally important is preserving the unique proximity of fans to the field, a defining characteristic that fuels the intensity and electric atmosphere on game day.”
