The University of Florida is officially moving ahead with one of the largest athletic facility upgrades in its history — a $398.5 million renovation of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, better known as “The Swamp.” The multi-phase project will modernize the nearly century-old venue while preserving its iconic character and connection to Gator football history.
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According to public planning documents, Brasfield & Gorrie, a Birmingham, Alabama-based construction firm, will serve as the general contractor on the massive overhaul. Crawford Architects, based in Kansas City, Missouri, is listed as the lead design partner. Together, the firms will reimagine one of the most recognizable stadiums in college football to meet modern fan expectations, safety standards, and sustainability goals.
Originally built in 1930 and last renovated in 2003, the stadium has long stood as a centerpiece of Florida athletics. The university’s new plan — spearheaded by the University Athletic Association — aims to enhance fan comfort and accessibility, streamline circulation, and expand premium amenities while maintaining the classic, bowl-like atmosphere of “The Swamp.”
University planning documents describe the project as a “comprehensive, multi-phase renovation” focused on increasing space at key entry points, improving concourse circulation, and reducing congestion. Planned upgrades include expanded seating zones, improved restrooms and concessions, and more efficient pathways for vertical movement between levels.
Additionally, areas once used by the Gators football program — now vacant since the team’s 2022 relocation to the Heavener Football Training Center — will be redeveloped for new premium spaces and fan hospitality areas. Proposed additions include a central kitchen and commissary, along with club lounges and suites that cater to game-day visitors and event clients year-round.
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A public meeting on the project is scheduled for Thursday at 2 p.m. in Gainesville, where university officials are expected to provide more details about design and phasing plans.
Brasfield & Gorrie declined to comment on the project, referring inquiries to the University of Florida. The university had not provided additional information by the time of publication.
The last major renovation to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium took place in 2003, when 2,900 club seats and several luxury suites were added, according to Swamp247, a Gators-focused outlet.
The current renovation is expected to begin construction in April 2027 and reach substantial completion by February 2030, according to Swamp247 reports. When complete, the revamped stadium will have a reduced capacity of 84,399 seats, down slightly from the current 88,548, in order to accommodate wider aisles, expanded premium seating, and improved accessibility.
University officials emphasized that while capacity will decrease slightly, fan experience, comfort, and long-term infrastructure sustainability are the top priorities.
The $398.5 million budget makes the renovation one of the largest capital improvement projects ever undertaken by the University of Florida. It follows a growing national trend among major universities to modernize legacy stadiums to enhance accessibility, technology, and revenue potential while preserving their traditional character.
Originally reported by Zachary Phillips in Construction Dive.
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