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Razorback Stadium Gets Approved For $160M Expansion

By Blake Smith

Sep 20, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks fans cheer during the second half of a game against the Northern Illinois University Huskies at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas defeated NIU 52-14. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks fans cheer during the second half of a game against the Northern Illinois University Huskies at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas defeated NIU 52-14. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports /
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The University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees have approved a $160 million dollar expansion of Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium by a vote of 8-2.

The upgrade will primarily focus on adding additional suites and some general seating, while expanding the stadium by about 4,500 seats. The main goal of the expansion seems to be in getting more people in suites, according to Athletic Director Jeff Long,

““The project has never been intended to dramatically increase the capacity of the stadium by simply adding more seats. It is designed to enhance the game day experience for every fan as well as meet the demonstrated demand for suite and club areas that currently are at more than 98 percent occupancy. These additions will not only allow fans more game day options, but will open opportunities for new fans at varying price levels, including reduced price tickets in the upper level.” Said Long.

According to the Arkansas Razorbacks website, which you can read by clicking here, some additional details of the project include;

"“North end zone. The north addition will include new suites, loge boxes, club seats, and club areas. The east and west concourses will connect to allow the flow of patrons around the stadium, as well as provide new concessions and restrooms. Additional and expanded entrances will improve patron flow. A new game day locker room, training room, and pre/post game support rooms will be added for the football team.Stadium updates. New elevators will be installed at the northeast and northwest corners to service the existing east and west suites, club areas, and upper level seating. Existing suites and club areas will be renovated and updated. A new video board will be added at the south end of the stadium. Security and safety systems will be enhanced.Frank Broyles Athletic Center. The Broyles Center will be affected by the larger north end zone project, and will be rebuilt in the new north end. The Broyles Center will still house the administrative offices, along with space that can be used for ticketing, merchandise, and Razorback history and traditions.”"

There was some push back on the expansion however, according to the website ArkansasOnline.com former U.S. Sen. David Pryor came out and said, “This proposal is not about students; it’s not about scholarship; it’s not about keeping kids in school.” This sentiment was also shared by Trustee C.C. “Cliff” Gibson.

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The project is expected to be completed by the 2018 football season. Hopefully one of those suites can be used by a certain fan blogging website. Perhaps some backers of the Razorbacks…Razorbackers, if you will.

Woo Pig.

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