USF stadium construction has produced more than $210 million in awarded contracts for Florida companies as construction accelerates toward a September 2027 opening for the university’s football stadium and football operations center.
University officials said about $155 million in contracts has gone to companies in the Greater Tampa Bay region. The project is now one of the largest active construction sites on USF’s Tampa campus, generating work for local contractors, subcontractors and suppliers.
The 35,000-seat venue remains on schedule for its Sept. 4, 2027 opener against Louisville. “To finally have a home of our own is really special,” Rob Higgins, USF’s chief executive of athletics, said.
Construction crews have logged nearly 376,000 labor hours and installed almost 5,000 tons of structural steel, or just under 10 million pounds, as work advances on seating sections, concessions areas and hospitality spaces.
Crews recently completed a large overnight concrete pour for north-side concessions and restroom facilities. About 40 workers arrived around 2 a.m. to begin work before the workforce grew to roughly 250 later that morning. Higgins said crews typically work from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. as construction ramps up.
The spending surge reflects the facilities arms race in college athletics as universities continue investing heavily in football facilities aimed at recruiting, donors, conference standing and revenue growth.
Read the latest Tampa business news and updates
Steel is rising in the west end zone, home to the planned 8,000-seat student section. University officials expected roughly 500 students to sign one of the stadium’s structural beams during a recent display on campus. More than 5,000 signatures were added over 72 hours, according to USF.
The development also will include an East Field Club where fans can interact with players before games, a sideline club seating about 1,000 fans and a rooftop hospitality space across the south tower that USF says will be the longest rooftop bar in Florida.
The complex also includes the 150,000-square-foot Tampa General Hospital Center for Athletic Excellence. The facility will house a weight room, sports medicine clinic, locker room, coaches offices, team meeting areas, a barbershop and a DJ recording studio.
USF plans to launch a public project website in June as the stadium becomes more visible ahead of the 2027 season.
Read More Tampa Bay Business News
Explore the latest Tampa Bay business news, real estate deals, development projects, executive moves and company updates shaping the region.