The University of Missouri has selected Kansas City-based architecture firm DLR Group as the consultant for the Memorial Stadium Improvements project, announced by Director of Athletics Desireé Reed-Francois. The University of Missouri Board of Curators approved DLR Group’s selection during the Finance Committee’s meeting.
The university initiated the selection process in November, issuing a request for qualification to choose an architectural and engineering firm for the football stadium renovation project. The selection committee, led by Reed-Francois and including Mizzou Football head coach Eliah Drinkwitz and UM Curator Bob Blitz, reviewed three firms. DLR Group stood out due to its track record in completing comparable college football stadium renovations, including Los Angeles Memorial Stadium, the University of Houston’s TDECU Football Stadium, and the University of Louisiana’s Cajun Field.
DLR Group will conduct a pre-design study for Memorial Stadium, developing programming plans for a fee not exceeding $400,000. The Memorial Stadium Improvements project aims to create an open-air mixed-use development along the North Concourse, offering modernized year-round revenue opportunities. The design will prioritize maintaining stadium views and engagement to the Mizzou campus while minimizing construction impact on game-day activities.
Private donor contributions will fund the renovations, and the project is expected to be completed by mid-August 2026. The vision for the project includes a premium seating component, open-air observation decks, improved concessions, new restrooms, a new stadium gateway, improved wayfinding, new retail outlets, a football team recruiting room, and enhancements to the North End Zone videoboard. The iconic Rock M behind the north end zone will be preserved.
The project aligns with the university’s commitment to building a championship culture, as evidenced by Mizzou Football’s successful 2023 season under SEC Coach of the Year Eliah Drinkwitz. With the Tigers achieving a 10-2 record, leading the SEC in attendance growth, and securing a spot in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, the Memorial Stadium Improvements project aims to enhance the game-day experience and further strengthen Mizzou Athletics’ national brand.
