WVU outlines major athletics facility upgrades as Board approves key projects
West Virginia University’s vision for modernizing its athletics facilities is taking shape as the Board of Governors has given initial approval to two cornerstone projects, the Milan Puskar Stadium West Tower and a premium seating upgrade at the Hope Coliseum.
The projects represent the first phase of WVU’s comprehensive Athletics Facilities Master Plan, which aims to enhance the fan experience, expand revenue opportunities, and improve infrastructure across multiple sports.
New West Tower coming to Milan Puskar Stadium
The West Tower Project will replace the stadium’s existing press box, which has seen no major renovation since the venue opened in 1980. While the 2017-18 stadium upgrades improved gates, concourses, concessions, and restrooms, the tower and suite levels remained untouched.
A 2024 market study confirmed significant demand for additional premium offerings. All current suites and club seating on the west sideline and in both end zones are sold out with waiting lists.
The new tower is expected to feature:
- Expanded premium suites and founders’ suites
- Modern press and broadcast areas
- Enhanced game-day and operations spaces
- Improved accessibility and fan amenities
The project’s total cost is estimated at more than $150 million, funded through a mix of fundraising, sponsorships, naming rights, and premium sales. WVU will hire an architect, engineering team, construction manager, and sales partner before returning to the Board with finalized cost estimates and financing details.
“Growing our premium seating offerings in our two main competition venues is critical to producing long-term revenue streams that are vital to our future growth and success,” said WVU Director of Athletics Wren Baker. “The end result will enhance the game-day experience at both venues, give fans access to new seating options and amenities, while also making Milan Puskar Stadium more viable for concerts and other events.”
Hope Coliseum upgrades to expand premium seating and modernization
The Board also approved a $1.5 million Hope Coliseum Premium Seating Project, adding 85 loge and 16 ledge-style seats. The project is part of a larger master plan to modernize the entire Hope Coliseum complex.
Multi-use arena
Plans include a new multi-use arena that will become the primary home for volleyball, with gymnastics, wrestling, and rifle also competing there. The facility would feature a permanent wood floor with modular surfaces for each sport and flexible seating options for various events.
Indoor track and practice facility
The plan also outlines a 6-lane, 300-meter indoor track with a multi-use turf infield, 2,000 retractable seats, and visual connections to Dick Dlesk Soccer Stadium, creating a more unified athletics corridor.
Apron and safety improvements
An upgraded Coliseum apron will address long-standing issues with uneven pavement, drainage, and lighting, improving safety, accessibility, and aesthetics around one of WVU’s most iconic venues.
Broadcast control rooms
WVU also plans to add permanent production control rooms inside the Coliseum to support ESPN+ broadcasts. Currently, the university relies on a single mobile trailer to produce nearly 100 events annually, making it the only Big 12 school without fixed production facilities.
Setting a new standard
The approved projects are the first step in a broad, multi-year effort to reimagine WVU’s athletic infrastructure. Future initiatives could include a multi-use arena, indoor track and practice facility, and a potential mixed-use district that connects campus athletics with community and commercial development.
WVU President Michael T. Benson called the athletics investments an important part of the University’s long-term strategy for growth and engagement.
“In addition to serving our fans, these projects will benefit WVU in a multitude of ways for many years,” Baker said. “We are grateful to President Benson and our Board of Governors for their continued support.”
With the master plan now officially moving forward, West Virginia is focused on combining modern design with a game-day experience that reflects the passion of Mountaineer fans, on campus and across the state.
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