Marina
The University of Kansas is ready to kick off a new chapter with the official debut of its modernized football stadium. The transformation of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium marks one of the most ambitious renovation projects in college football.
The new stadium blends historic charm with state-of-the-art upgrades, promising a world-class game-day experience for fans, players, and the community.
A Fresh Beginning for Kansas Football
The stadium’s opening aligns with Kansas’ commitment to improving both athletics and community engagement. The renovation is part of the Gateway District Project, which not only modernizes the stadium but also creates a multi-purpose space with year-round usability.
The debut game will officially welcome fans back home, after Kansas football temporarily played its games away due to ongoing construction.
Key Upgrades in the New Stadium
The renovation focuses on enhancing comfort, technology, and accessibility. Highlights include:
- Seating Bowl Redesign: Fans are now closer to the field with improved sightlines.
- Premium Seating: Over 3,000 premium seats including club areas and 42 luxury suites.
- Expanded Concessions & Restrooms: 4× more concession points and 1.5× more restrooms to reduce waiting time.
- Modern Scoreboard: A giant new video board that is nearly 2.5× larger than the old one and positioned closer to the field.
- Accessibility: More elevators, wheelchair seating, and better circulation for fans with mobility needs.
- Premium Social Zones: Fans can enjoy lounges, club spaces, and dedicated fan interaction areas.
Capacity and Comfort
Unlike the old structure, which focused on size, the new stadium emphasizes quality over quantity. The 2025 version of the stadium will hold just over 40,000 fans, creating a more intimate but energetic atmosphere.
Each seat has 50% more legroom and 50% more space per person, ensuring comfort even during packed games.
Technology and Fan Experience
Technology has taken center stage in the redesign. The video board and sound system are designed to create an immersive environment. High-speed Wi-Fi and upgraded lighting systems allow fans to enjoy replays, stats, and interactive features instantly.
The stadium also incorporates sustainable features, reducing energy waste and making the venue eco-friendly.
The Gateway District Vision
The stadium is the centerpiece of the Gateway District, a larger development plan that includes:
- Conference Center: A 55,000 sq. ft. facility with a 15,000 sq. ft. main hall and breakout rooms.
- Hotel and Retail Spaces: Future phases will include a hotel, shops, and restaurants.
- Community Events: Spaces designed for concerts, festivals, and conferences outside football season.
This transformation ensures the stadium is more than just a sports venue—it becomes a year-round economic hub for Lawrence and the surrounding region.
Construction and Investment
The Phase 1 construction cost is estimated at $448 million. The project was made possible through a mix of state support, private donations, and partnerships.
One of the largest private gifts came from David Booth, whose contribution not only honors the stadium’s legacy but also ensures its long-term growth.
The construction required:
- Over 5,000 tons of steel
- Nearly 600,000 hours of labor
- Daily crews of up to 600 workers
This scale of investment shows Kansas’ determination to provide a top-tier facility for fans and athletes.
Field Enhancements
The playing field has also been upgraded with new synthetic turf, vibrant team branding, and iconic Jayhawk imagery at midfield. These touches enhance visibility both in person and on television broadcasts.
The design was made with durability, safety, and player performance in mind.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Game | Aug. 23, 2025 vs. Fresno State |
| Phase 1 Cost | $448 million |
| Seating Capacity | Just over 40,000 |
| Premium Spaces | 42 suites, 4 clubs, 3,000 premium seats |
| Scoreboard | ~5,200 sq. ft., 2.5× larger, closer to field |
| Concessions | 4× more stands than before |
| Restrooms | 1.5× more restrooms |
| Conference Center | 55,000 sq. ft., 15,000 sq. ft. hall + breakout rooms |
| Future Phases | Hotel, retail, student housing, entertainment plaza |
Why This Matters
The modernization of Kansas’ football stadium isn’t just about sports—it’s about identity, community, and growth. The improvements will:
- Strengthen home-field advantage with louder and closer crowds.
- Provide premium fan experiences to compete with top programs.
- Serve as an economic driver for the city of Lawrence.
- Offer a multi-purpose facility that can host events beyond football.
The unveiling of the modernized David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium marks a turning point for Kansas football and the community. With its blend of historic tradition and state-of-the-art features, the stadium offers fans a game-day environment like never before.
From premium seating to cutting-edge technology and a role in the broader Gateway District, this venue is set to become a hub of excitement, pride, and opportunity.
As Kansas takes the field against Fresno State in August 2025, fans will not just witness a football game—they’ll experience the dawn of a new era for Jayhawk Nation.