The Indiana University Board of Trustees Executive Committee unanimously approved a $40 million renovation plan for the west bowl of Memorial Stadium during a Sept. 10 virtual meeting.
Executive Committee Chair David Hormuth, vice chair Marilee Springer, Matt Ferguson and Steve Henke all voted in favor of the project, which will add to and renovate existing facilities in the west bowl, like restroom and concessions spaces.
The west bowl was constructed in 1962 and has not undergone any major renovations since, John D’Angelo, vice president for capital planning and facilities at IU, said during the meeting. He said that the renovations will add 225 bathrooms to the west bowl and renovate the existing 166, bringing them up to Americans with Disabilities Act code.
“In short, this $40 million investment addresses critical infrastructure needs in the West Bowl, brings plumbing up to current code, resolves longstanding ADA deficiencies, and increases restroom capacity by 136%,” D’Angelo wrote in his prepared statement for the meeting. “It also expands concession space and points of sale to improve fan service.”
During the meeting, Henke praised the plan as timely and proactive, stating that its focus on accessibility and fundamental infrastructure will help preserve the stadium’s long-term functionality.
The board authorized the use of $50 million for projects meant to “maintain safe and effective operations for infrastructure and systems affected by Memorial Stadium usage,” in August, D’Angelo wrote.
According to D’Angelo’s prepared statement, the timing of the approval will allow the board to submit the project for state approval before the board’s scheduled October meeting, keeping the project on track for the university’s goal to complete renovations by fall 2027.
“Memorial Stadium is one of the places where people experience Indiana University at its best – whether it’s cheering on the Hoosiers or participating in cherished events and traditions such as Commencement,” Henke wrote in a statement for the meeting. “Today's action reflects our commitment to preserving this valuable asset so it can continue to serve the university and the people of Indiana for decades to come.”
