Board Approved: Lindsey Nelson Stadium renovations are ‘a go’
Friday morning, the University of Tennessee announced the budget approval from the board of trustees to continue on with the renovation project for Lindsey Nelson Stadium. The announcement also came with an updated timeline with construction set to begin August 2023.
Based on the recommendations of the hired architect and construction manager based on the scope of the project and escalating construction cost, the athletic administration asked the board for an additional $39 million to the project making it a nearly $96 million project ($95.8 total).
The expected seating capacity will grow to over 6,100 seats with the ability of 1,600 more spectators for standing room only. New premium seating options are also in the works that will include an expanded MVP room, a club level that seats close to 800 fans and multiple tiers of four-seat tabletop seating overlooking third base, according to the university release.
The renovation will expand the concourse to increase concession locations and restroom accommodations while also upgrading ‘back of house and media areas.’
There is also an on-site kitchen that will be installed to enhance concessions and quality of guests throughout the season.
“The interest and excitement surrounding our plans for the new-look Lindsey Nelson Stadium have been overwhelming,” Director of Athletics Danny White said in a University release. “After seeking additional input from Vol Nation through our fan surveys, it was apparent that we needed to think even bigger. But one thing we’ve been strategic about throughout this process is ensuring that the final product provides our team with the most unique and tangible homefield advantage in college baseball. Our fans and students always make their presence felt—and we want to maximize their impact on winning ballgames.”
The project is expected to be a multi-year process. A series of stadium improvements have already been completed prior to the 2023 campaign. These improvements included updated locker room, weight room and third level or porches for fans in the outfield.
The update concluded by saying Lindsey Nelson Stadium will transform into one of the premier college baseball venues in the country with world-class player development areas, multiple new gates, increased seating capacity to approximately 7,600 fans, wider concourses, more concession stands and restrooms and new luxurious premium-seating offerings.
Lindsey Nelson Stadium Renderings (University of Tennessee)
