Construction activity across professional and collegiate sports venues continues to involve large-scale stadium development, facility modernization and specialized athlete performance infrastructure. Gilbane has secured the No. 3 position among U.S. sports facility construction firms in Building Design+Construction's 2026 Giants 400 Report.
The annual ranking evaluates sports and recreation facility contractors and construction management firms based on revenue generated in the sector during 2025.
Gilbane has delivered athletic facilities for more than 45 organizations nationwide, covering professional stadiums, collegiate arenas, training centres and recreation facilities.
One of Gilbane's major projects is the $2.1 billion Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. Delivered through a joint venture with Turner Construction and in association with 34 Group, the 1.6-million-square-foot stadium serves as the new home of the Buffalo Bills.
The venue includes a 360-degree canopy, heating and snow-melt systems, hospitality areas and audiovisual infrastructure.
In Baltimore, Gilbane completed a three-year, phased renovation of M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens. The work included improvements to premium seating and suites, food and beverage facilities, digital displays and the North Plaza, which received additional gathering and entertainment spaces.
Gilbane's sports construction portfolio also includes specialized facilities supporting athlete training, medical care and administration.
In Charlotte, Gilbane and joint venture partner R.J. Leeper reached the structural topping-out milestone for the Novant Health Performance Center for the Charlotte Hornets. The planned 160,000-plus-square-foot facility will include training areas, administrative offices, retail space and orthopedic and sports medicine services. Opening is scheduled for spring 2027.
At Fairfield University, Gilbane delivered the 3,500-seat Leo D. Mahoney Arena. The facility accommodates basketball and volleyball alongside concerts, commencement ceremonies and other university events.
Gilbane's ranking reflects its position in a specialized construction market encompassing stadium development, renovation and athletic performance facilities. These projects require coordination across structural construction, building systems, spectator amenities and specialized operational spaces.
The company's portfolio also demonstrates the range of delivery requirements in sports infrastructure, from major professional stadiums to collegiate arenas and dedicated athlete training centres.
Source: Gilbane.
