University of Alabama shares plans for multi-phase renovations to Bryant-Denny Stadium

Bryant-Denny Stadium is gearing up for multi-phase renovations. Here’s a look at the upgrades to expect.

Reasons for Renovations

Bryant-Denny Stadium has already seen plenty of upgrades over the years—some of which are rather new. So why the need for renovations? 

According to UA’s head coach, Nick Saban, the plan will keep the school’s athletic teams ahead of the curve. The plan also includes a $1 million donation from Saban and his wife Terry. 

What’s interesting is that the previous upgrades increased the capacity of the stadium, but the impending renovations will likely drop capacity to below 100,000. 

The Timetable

The 2018-2019 college football season kicks off on Aug. 25. Finding your way around a huge stadium can be tricky even without construction. Luckily, the impending renovations won’t begin until after the 2019 season, so you won’t have to combat a construction scene anytime soon. Phew!

Phase I

One of the biggest renovations the stadium will see is the reshaping of the upper deck in the south end zone for the installation of a mega video board. 

Well, that’s cool. But this particular renovation will eliminate some seats. 

No need shriek in horror! There are plans to replace some of these lost seats. The idea is to construct a deck for standing room viewing. It is also an area that UA athletics director, Greg Byrne, said is hard for them to fill. 

There are also no plans in order to change the number of seats in the student section. Lemme see all you UA students shake those red and white pompoms for that great news!

Other Phase I Renovations

Along with the changes to the south end zone, here’s what else to expect during Phase I of renovations at Bryant-Denny Stadium:

• The Press Box will be relocated from its current spot on the 50-yard line of the west side of the stadium to the east side of the stadium. 10 new suites will be built in its place. 
• A tunnel will be built that leads the Walk of Champions directly into the locker room. The tunnel will also feature video boards. 
• The locker room and recruiting room inside the stadium will be completely rebuilt.
• The locker room at the Mal Moore athletics complex will be updated.
• A “sports science” center will be added to the sports medicine area.

Phase II

More dirty work will occur during Phase II of the renovations at Bryant-Denny Stadium, which will include gutting and reconstruction of Coleman Coliseum. 

Phase III

The final phase of renovations to the stadium will deal with reconfiguring all of the existing concourses, restrooms and concessions (an estimate of $210 million).  

What do you think of the renovations to come for Bryant-Denny Stadium? Let us know your thoughts football fans!