Memorial Stadium in Norman is getting set to undergo a major and pricey renovation, former Oklahoma quarterback-turned-broadcaster Dean Blevins reported overnight.
According to the KWTV sports anchor, multiple sources have confirmed that “a Master Expansion Plan for Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium has been approved and is expected to be announced at a future OU Board of Regents meeting.” The renovation would commence shortly after the final regular season game of the 2014 season (Dec. 6 versus rival Oklahoma State) and would be completed before the 2015 season opener Sept. 5 against Akron.
The price tag for first construction on the stadium in more than a decade? At least $350 million, possibly reaching $400 million.
Here’s a partial list of the work the renovation plans entail:
-- Current suites are expected to be upgraded and updated while new suites will be added in the south end zone.
-- New press box.
-- “Substantial facilities upgrades in the south end zone, where the players currently dress, meet and press conferences are held, would result in a state-of-the-art weight room and training facilities – a huge recruiting tool in today’s environment.”
-- Additional seating that would increase the capacity from 82,112 to more than 90,000.
The added seating would move OU from 16th in the country to 12th, trailing, from 1-11, Michigan, Penn State, Texas A&M (upon completion of Kyle Field’s renovation), Tennessee, Ohio State, Alabama, Texas, USC, Georgia, LSU and UCLA. The television station’s website notes that there is a waiting list in excess of 15,000 people for season tickets.
(Photo credit: Oklahoma athletics)