The University of Missouri Board of Curators has approved a resolution for renovations to Memorial Stadium, the football stadium, with a focus on redeveloping the North Concourse and implementing various facility enhancements and fan amenities. The resolution was passed during an executive session of the UM Board of Curators meeting at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Key points of the resolution and the proposed project include:
- Renovation Scope: The project aims to renovate Memorial Stadium, particularly focusing on the redevelopment of the North Concourse. Other enhancements and new fan amenities are also planned.
- Architectural and Engineering Firm Selection: The board has authorized the issuance of a request for qualification (RFQ) to select an architectural and engineering firm as a consultant for the project. An architect selection committee, led by MU Director of Athletics Desireé Reed-Francois, will recommend a firm to the university president for approval.
- Timeline and Reporting: President Mun Choi has designated an architect selection committee to recommend an architectural firm by January 10, 2024, pending approval and agreed-upon financial terms. The Athletics department is expected to present the firm to the board for approval. A report on the project’s pre-design programming and planning, including scope, budget, and fundraising plans, is anticipated by April 18, 2024.
- Project Significance: The board sees the Memorial Stadium Project as an opportunity to capitalize on the positive momentum of Mizzou Athletics and strengthen one of the university’s signature facilities.
- Year-round Engagement: President Choi emphasizes the project’s potential to create new year-round connections with the community, enhancing engagement with the region, the state, and the university’s alumni.
- Football Program Success: The decision to pursue renovations aligns with the success of the Mizzou football program under head coach Eli Drinkwitz, with an 8-2 record this season and a No. 9 ranking in the College Football Playoff rankings.
- Videoboard Upgrade: In addition to the stadium renovations, Mizzou has initiated the process of installing a new expanded north videoboard with an upgraded sound system at Memorial Stadium for the 2024 season.
- Preservation of Tradition: The historic Rock M behind the north end zone will be preserved in its traditional place on Faurot Field.
Memorial Stadium, built in 1926, has undergone various expansions and renovations over the last century, with the most recent addition being the South End Zone complex in 2019.
