WATCH: Florida unveils renderings for $1.45 billion stadium renovation

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida revealed renderings and a promotional video Thursday for its $1.45 billion renovation of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. More details will be released Thursday afternoon on the project, which is expected to be the most expensive stadium renovation in college football history.

Construction for the multi-phase project will begin after the 2026 football season and is targeted for completion ahead of the 2030 football season.

Mori Hosseini, the University of Florida Board of Trustees chair, released a statement on Thursday morning with the price tag for the stadium.

“The UF Board of Trustees will be taking the first important steps today toward launching the long-awaited and much anticipated renovation of our beloved Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, aka The Swamp. This $1.45 billion project will breathe new life into one of the nation’s most iconic college football venues and elevate it into the premier collegiate athletic destination that sets the standard for everyone else. More information about the project is available at theswamprenovation.com.”

Below is the promotional video, narrated by Laura Rutledge, with renderings of the stadium near the end.

According to the website, the project will be funded through a combination of private giving, capital reserves, project-generated revenues and financing mechanisms, including long-term debt, through approval of the Florida Board of Governors.

UF last expanded The Swamp in 2003 with 2,900 club seats and luxury suites. The new renovations will include wider concourses, enhanced concession spaces, more restrooms and an upgraded scoreboard and sound system.

“Preserving the defining elements of The Swamp is a central priority in this process – including maintaining the historic Orange Wing Walls that frame the stadium and contribute to its iconic look. Equally important is preserving the unique proximity of fans to the field,” the UAA said in a fan survey in late March.

In April, Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin revealed that the Gators would maintain the capacity of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The stadium’s current capacity is 88,548.

Previously, the renovation planned to reduce capacity to 84,399. That projection was due to UF needing to comply with updated Americans with Disabilities Act regulations.

In order to avoid the loss of seats, Florida is spending more money on its renovation and adding some sections throughout the stadium, including premium seating areas.

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