Penn State Approves $700 Million Renovation for Beaver Stadium

One of the largest stadiums in college football is about to get an expensive facelift: Penn State’s Board of Trustees has approved a massive $700 million renovation of Beaver Stadium, the university announced on Tuesday. The upgrades will make Beaver Stadium a year-round venue as the new 12-team College Football Playoff moves toward on-campus sites for first-round games. The renovations will include widening concourses, adding new restrooms, improving concessions, enhancing WiFi, and upgrading premium seating. The project will take place over the next three offseasons, with the goal of completing construction before 2027.

“Many recognize Beaver Stadium as the best stadium in college football, and we want to preserve the atmosphere that our fans, alumni, and community have come to expect while building on this history of excellence for generations to come. The renovations will have a wide variety of positive impacts on our community, help us remain a national leader by attracting top student-athletes, and continue serving as a symbol for belonging and pride for students across the Commonwealth.”

Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi

The athletic department’s largest focus will be a winterization effort. This includes insulating pipes and other upgrades to allow the stadium to be used in the winter. Many of these renovations are expected to be completed before this year’s first round of College Football Playoff games on December 20-21.

The Beaver Stadium project will be fully paid for through fundraising, concessions, naming opportunities, sponsorship, and ticket sales. These funds will help the school eliminate a $200 million backlog in previously scheduled maintenance costs.

“I’m pleased that the renovation will benefit our student-athletes, elevate Beaver Stadium’s significance in driving local and state economies, and ensure Beaver Stadium remains a premier facility in all of college athletics.”

Board of Trustees chairman Matt Schuyler

Beaver Stadium, built in 1960, has not received significant renovations since 2001. The new project also includes a welcome center that will be used year-round for university student recruitment.

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