$265 million renovation to FSU football stadium gets board approval

Florida State’s football stadium is a step closer to a nine-figure renovation after a vote Friday by the university’s board of trustees.

The board moved without objection to approve up to $265 million in debt for a major overhaul to the west and south sides of Doak Campbell Stadium.

Its capacity would shrink from 79,560 to about 70,000 — part of a nationwide trend of college football stadium downsizing. But fewer seats provide different options. Seats on the west side would become roomier while the Seminoles provide more premium seating. Handrails will be installed. A new kitchen and more points of sale for concessions and merchandise are among the other amenities.

Seminoles athletic director Michael Alford told the board in its virtual meeting that those amenities will modernize the 73-year-old stadium and “increase revenue capabilities so we can better compete with our peers.”

The project also includes a new look for the Dunlap Champions Club. Alford said FSU has never sold more than 51% of those seats. The renovation will allow the ‘Noles to offer more selections, like loge or ledge seating.

The presentation listed Dec. 6 as the proposed demolition date. Construction is expected to be done in time for the 2025 season opener against Alabama.

Board chairperson Peter Collins called the project “a big teardown and a big lift afterwards.”

“This is a big step for us,” FSU president Richard McCullough said.

Two more remain. The State University System Board of Governors is expected to consider approval during its Nov. 8-9 meeting. The Florida Cabinet would then consider it in December.

FSU estimated a 7% interest rate for the debt over 30 years. No other items — including conference realignment — were discussed during the meeting.

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