The University of Florida announced plans to renovate Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Monday, advertising for an architect to modernize the iconic stadium. 

This renovation will be the largest facility project in the history of the department, costing an estimated $400 million. The university plans to follow a similar financial model to what it has used in the past, using a fundraising campaign as a base. 

The University Athletic Association (UAA) has run a series of studies and evaluations on The Swamp, which was built in 1930. Based on the results of those studies, the UAA is preparing to select an architect and begin the design phase. 

“We’ve conducted a number of studies over the last five-plus years about what the future could look like for Ben Hill Griffin Stadium,” Athletics Director Scott Stricklin said in a press release. “We’ve engaged with vendors that specialize in iconic venues and stadium experience for both fans and players while offering a variety of solutions. It is now time to take that information and engage with an architect who can present renovation, construction and phasing options for the Swamp.” 

The project will modernize the fan experience by upgrading elements such as the video board, sound system, concourse, entry gates, seating, concessions and restrooms.  

The formal selection process for the project’s architect will begin this month, coordinated with the Campus Planning, Design and Construction Office. Once chosen, the architectural team will help create the planning strategy and phasing components of the project.  

“There are many questions that come with a project of this scope, but it would be premature to speculate on the answer to many of those, including but not limited to final costs, seating capacity and specific timeline,” Stricklin said. “We look forward to working along with an architect that will start providing options on what those answers could look like and allow us to continue to host college football’s biggest and best fans in The Swamp.”