Nebraska Announces Historic Plan to “Transform” Memorial Stadium

At its upcoming meeting on April 24, the University of Nebraska Board of Regents will consider Nebraska Athletics’ bold and historic plan to transform Memorial Stadium. This initiative, *Big Red Rebuild*, signals the beginning of a new era for Memorial Stadium that will serve current and future generations of Nebraskans. This historic plan will combine innovation with tradition to dramatically elevate the fan experience and will help position Husker Athletics financially to compete and lead at the highest level in a rapidly evolving college athletics landscape.

The foundation of this transformational plan is based on the powerful and important voices of Nebraska fans who have provided valuable input about the future of Memorial Stadium. Fan feedback from Nebraskans across the state helped drive this important initiative. Memorial Stadium has been the home of the Nebraska Football program since 1923 and celebrated its 100th anniversary during the 2023 season. Nebraska fans have filled Memorial Stadium since 1962, and the Huskers will enter the 2026 season with 410 consecutive home sellouts.

More than a renovation, *Big Red Rebuild* is a fan-first reimagining of Memorial Stadium, where tradition meets innovation. This dynamic transformation will honor the stadium’s storied legacy while ushering in a new era of energy, access, and year-round engagement. By elevating the game-day atmosphere and expanding year-round programming such as concerts and other events, the project will revitalize the historic landmark. The *Big Red Rebuild* will ensure Memorial Stadium continues to be a premier destination for college football and world-class entertainment – helping drive new students to the University of Nebraska, increasing revenue, and bringing new visitors and economic growth to the region.

“The Board is set to consider this important initiative, which represents an incredible opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the entire University System and will bring real economic benefits to the state of Nebraska,” said University of Nebraska System Board of Regents Chairman, Paul Kenney. “Memorial Stadium is a representation of our state’s values and traditions, and this restoration project will help preserve its legacy for future generations.”

The redesigned stadium will offer improved access, seat comfort, enhanced sightlines, and upgraded amenities throughout the entire stadium. A newly connected East and West bowl that allows 360 degrees on the main concourse will make it easier than ever to move throughout the stadium, an important priority for Nebraska fans. Seating 80,000 fans after full completion in time for the 2028 season, the plan includes an additional 20,000 new chairback seats to elevate comfort, and 7,000 seats dedicated to Nebraska students and band members. Nebraska’s students are a very important part of the game-day experience at Memorial Stadium, and the noise and excitement associated with the newly relocated student section will help create a strong competitive advantage for Nebraska Football. Expanded concessions and restrooms will reduce wait times, while improved ADA accessibility will ensure that every fan can be part of the game-day experience.

The *Big Red Rebuild* will deliver transformative impact without relying on taxpayer dollars. The project will be funded by leveraging a strategic mix of at least $250 million in philanthropic support and $350 million in private bond financing. The project will be a powerful economic engine for Nebraska, projected to create more than 7,300 new jobs and drive an estimated $1.1 billion in statewide economic impact. Annual revenue from the new stadium is expected to reach $95 million, an increase of over 40% above current levels and positions Nebraska to compete and lead at the highest level in a rapidly evolving college athletics landscape. By expanding Memorial Stadium’s capabilities to host concerts and major events year-round, the venue will position Lincoln as a premier destination for entertainment, extending its influence well beyond game day.

Subject to approval by the Nebraska Board of Regents, full construction is set to begin following the 2026 football season. Fans will see progress quickly, with the project reaching approximately 50 percent completion for the 2027 season and fully transforming Memorial Stadium in time for kickoff in 2028.

An original renovation plan was first introduced in 2023 and approved by the Board at an estimated cost of $450 million. In late spring of 2024, the original project was paused to allow for a comprehensive review of the scope, strategy, and costs. That review identified several critically important areas that must be addressed including $200 million in mandatory deferred maintenance. The plan was updated to elevate the renovation into a forward-looking, revenue-generating project that fully addresses infrastructure needs and enhances the overall fan experience. The result is a comprehensive $600 million renovation plan that introduces innovative new revenue-generating elements to better position the University of Nebraska for long-term success.

“This is a multi-generational opportunity to build on the legacy of Memorial Stadium while positioning the University of Nebraska for long-term success,” said University of Nebraska System President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “*Big Red Rebuild* reflects a thoughtful, strategic investment in facilities that support not only athletics, but also our broader academic mission and student experience. By strengthening our ability to attract students, enhance engagement, and drive economic impact, this project advances the university’s commitment to excellence across the entire system.”

“*Big Red Rebuild* is a statement about the future of Nebraska Athletics,” said Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen. “Memorial Stadium is one of the most iconic venues in all of college sports and this project ensures that our stadium is well-positioned for future generations. We have listened intently to Nebraska fans and are building a best-in-class fan experience that will also drive revenue for the University of Nebraska, create exciting new year-round programming for Nebraskans, create new opportunities for our student-athletes, and position Nebraska to compete and lead at the highest level in a rapidly evolving college athletics landscape.”

The Board of Regents meeting will take place on April 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. A detailed agenda for the meeting can be found online at nebraska.edu.