U-M opens refurbished Michigan Stadium to public today

Michigan Stadium is getting a jump start on its tackles and downs as it opens up its doors to the public today.

The University of Michigan will showcase the nearly complete renovations from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., today only. Visitors can park at Pioneer High School, enter at the south side of the stadium through Gate 2, and proceed via steps or elevators to the structure. Closed to the public will be the upper and lower concourses on the east side, and the west side of the building.

The $226 million, three-year project is scheduled to be completed next month. Among the improvements are wider seats and aisles with handrails, elevated concourses, additional restrooms, and concessions on both sidelines. Buildings at both the north and south ends of the stadium house additional restrooms, concessions, and public safety services. A new press box was built and four towers, at each of the stadium's corners, feature elevators and wide stairways for access to the new concourses and premium seating areas.

New chair back seats and suites were also added. With the expansion now bringing the total to 108,500 seats, Michigan Stadium will again become the largest college football venue in the country. The first game is Sept. 4 against Connecticut.

A major part of the renovation was the addition of the 81 luxury seats, which sell for $55,000 to $85,000 apiece. Previously fans had been limited to bleacher seating. The stadium was built in 1927. Private donations and Athletic Department resources, primarily revenues generated by the new seating, will cover the renovation's cost.

Source: The University of Michigan
Writer: Kristin Lukowski
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