USF trustees approve updated stadium plan, clear way for full construction (NEW RENDERING)

The University of South Florida’s long-planned on-campus stadium is entering a new phase as trustees approved a revised $348.5 million project plan, paving the way for full-scale construction to begin this summer.

The cost increase reflects upgrades added since the original 2023 plan including space for potential future expansion, enhanced locker rooms, academic buildouts and vertical expansion of the Tampa General Hospital Center for Athletic Excellence. The university is using interest earnings from previously secured financing to fund the increase.

Site preparation has been underway since the ceremonial groundbreaking, in late 2024. Full construction will accelerate in May, with the stadium expected to open in fall 2027, following inspections that spring.

USF also released a new rendering, showcasing the east side of the stadium and offering fresh views of premium seating, rooftop patios and glass-walled club spaces. The stadium will seat approximately 35,000.

Trustees also approved $47.9 million in related infrastructure improvements to support growth on the east side of campus.

You May Also Like
USF reveals new renderings of Football Operations Center

The University of South Florida has released new renderings of the TGH Center for Athletic Excellence, a 150,000-square-foot football operations facility that will anchor the university’s $348 million on-campus stadium

Read More
Aerial rendering of the University of South Florida’s on-campus football stadium and athletic district in Tampa.
Tampa tech founder buys into European football, looking for investors

Tampa tech founder Will Freeman launches Catalyst Sports Ventures to bring local investors into the global soccer ownership game.

Read More
Haverfordwest County AFC soccer players in blue jerseys on the field during a Cymru Premier league match in Wales.
The data is in: Mixed-use stadiums win big for cities and fans

The Rays want a 100-acre stadium district that could reshape Tampa Bay.

Read More
Three members of the Tampa Bay Rays’ new ownership group pose together wearing team hats at a press conference backdrop featuring the Rays and Orlando Health logos.
Benchmark International on why they took center ice in downtown Tampa

TBBW sat down with the Tampa M&A firm to learn more about its biggest move yet.

Read More
Exterior of Benchmark International Arena with the downtown Tampa skyline in the background
Other Posts
Tampa Bay Wave startups raise $500M and add 1,000 jobs

Tampa Bay Wave startups raised $500M and added more than 1,000 jobs in a record-setting year.

Read More
Aerial view of downtown Tampa along the Hillsborough River with the Tampa Bay Wave logo overlaid.
USF real estate program accelerates with $1.25M gift

A $1.25M gift and new leadership are accelerating USF’s push to build a full real estate education pipeline in Tampa Bay.

Read More
University of South Florida entrance sign with the USF Bulls logo on a brick and white monument surrounded by landscaping.
Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival expands with new Hard Rock event

The Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival returns in April with a new Hard Rock event, expanded chef showdowns and the Grand Tasting downtown.

Read More
Chefs and judges on stage at the Publix Culinary Stage during the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival
Downtown Sarasota condo introduces short-term rental model

A downtown Sarasota condo is pairing luxury ownership with short-term rental flexibility.

Read More
Composite rendering of Saravela condominium and rooftop amenities in downtown Sarasota