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Historic College Football Stadium Makes Surprise Announcement on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andrew McCarty | Last updated Dec 2, 2024 11:07 AM ET

One of the most historic college football stadiums is set to undergo a massive change the coming years.

In a statement released on Monday morning the Rose Bowl Operating Company announced a multi-year revitalization of the stadium. The stadium updates will be completed in two phases with an eye toward the 2028 Olympics.

"The Lasting Legacy Campaign is a vital effort to maintain the Rose Bowl Stadium's status as a global icon in sports, entertainment, and culture," the statement read. "Through eight major improvement projects, set for completion by and beyond the 2028 Olympic Games, the campaign will prioritize the improvement of the experience at America's Stadium for all fans, by leveraging the sights, sounds and views that have written the venue's iconic story. These upgrades will not only preserve its historic legacy, but also amplify its lasting impact on Pasadena, Los Angeles County, the State of California and the nation."

The first phase will cost an estimated $30-35 million and will be completed between 2024-26. In the announcement, the operating company announced several projects have already been completed, while others are underway:

South End Zone Field Club
Historic Marquee Sign Refurbishment
East Side Safe Standing Area
Sound System Improvement
Gas/Water Infrastructure
Cellular Service Enhancement

The second phase will cost a bit more, $45-50 million, and will be completed between 2027-29:

Bowl Seating Improvements
Upgraded Videoboard Experience

College football reporter Ross Dellenger revealed renderings from the project.

The Rose Bowl Operating Company announces a multi-year revitalization of the stadium, including field level club seats, new scoreboard and fan connectivity and bowl seating enhancements. pic.twitter.com/T6J1GA5F9X
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) December 2, 2024

Arguably the most historic stadium in college football is getting a facelift, which will likely draw both support and ire from fans. It's known as an iconic venue, so some fans won't like the idea of change while others view this as the perfect opportunity to make improvements.

"It will be Interesting to see what is involved. A Rose Bowl renovation is definitely needed. Maybe along the lines of the LA Coliseum, Wrigley Field and Fenway Park," one fan said.

"Hundreds of years from now historians will widely agree that the downfall of American society was caused by the obliteration of iconic football stadiums in favor of exclusive options," said another sarcastically.

"Oh god they are going to ruin @rosebowlgame. One of the best parts is the old school feel of this game. You don’t need jumbo scoreboards and whatever the hell 'fan connectivity' is. Idiots," offered a third.

Not everyone agrees, but change is underway.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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