Transforming a Nebraska Icon for a Modern Generation

For generations, Memorial Stadium has served as more than the home of Nebraska Cornhusker football. It is a defining civic landmark and a visible expression of the university’s culture of loyalty, tradition and shared identity.

On game day, it becomes one of the largest population centers in the state, filled by a “Sea of Red.” Beyond game day, it is where the values of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln take shape in public view — where student-athletes are nurtured, community connections are strengthened and an entire state sees itself in reflection.

However, over time, the stadium’s layout no longer supported the level of connection, comfort and access expected of a venue with such deep cultural significance, creating an opportunity to modernize key spaces, improve circulation, and enhance amenities while honoring the traditions that have defined Memorial Stadium for generations.

In partnership with HNTB, we are working with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to transform Memorial Stadium into a modern, inclusive and sustainable venue that elevates the fan and athlete experience.

Strengthening Identity While Expanding Performance

The transformation of Memorial Stadium will preserve the traditions that define the fan and athlete experience while modernizing infrastructure, enhancing functionality and improving connectivity and performance.

A comprehensive evaluation of existing infrastructure, operations, amenities and seating strategy informed a phased approach that supports the strategic replacement of key stadium sections, including the south end zone, while modernizing the west section of the stadium. The result is a flexible venue that will enhance both game day and year-round use.

Key design features:

• South Stadium: new visual board and improved student and general seating
• West Stadium: improved sightlines and upgraded seating with premium club lounges and suite-level enhancements
• Expanded concourses, concessions, restrooms and fan amenities
• Improved circulation through new field-level, main concourse and upper concourse connections
• New back-of-house, loading, vertical transportation and food service spaces supporting game-day operations and 365-day use
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility upgrades