University Of Utah Unveils Renderings For Rice-Eccles Expansion

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The University of Utah has announced their plans to make Rice-Eccles Stadium bigger and better, not only for Ute fans, but the community.

The new project could also boost Salt Lake’s chances at a 2030 bid to host the Winter Olympics. The university’s Board of Trustees approved the stadium expansion Tuesday, and the project’s estimated $80 million price tag.

Artist rendering of the south end zone expansion project at Rice-Eccles Stadium. (Courtesy University of Utah)

A 2017 study revealed support from the community.

At a press conference Wednesday, officials said the need for expansion comes with sold-out ticket sales.

😍😍😍 https://t.co/mEUAaVgfNw

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) November 14, 2018

Rice-Eccles Stadium currently holds a capacity of 45,807. After expanding the south end zone, the stadium will have the capacity for 51,444 Ute fans.

The renovation was conditional upon financial approval. Officials said the project would be covered primarily through fundraising, sponsorships, and revenue generated by new premium seating.

They said the state and taxpayers would not be footing the bill.

Athletic director Mark Harlan said the season ticket waiting list included 3,000 Utah fans.

He said the project would add 1,000 bleacher seats to the 2,700 already in place. The additional 4,600 spots would be premium seating, which will include suites, outdoor lower seating, rooftop terrace seating, club seating and an area for social gathering.

Some FAQ’s on the @Rice_Eccles stadium expansion plan.
The renovation should be completed prior to the kickoff of the 2021 football season, conditional on financing approval. #goutes pic.twitter.com/O5D1YziqUD

— Utah Athletics (@utahathletics) November 14, 2018

“(The) project will include brand new locker rooms in a new building set below the new seating. These new facilities will serve our football student athletes and coaches on game day to make sure they have the best in the nation,” said Harlan. “There will also be space for athletic training, equipment and media.”

The university expected to have the project complete prior to kick off for the 2021 football season.