University of Memphis Athletic Director Dr. Ed Scott continues to champion the transformational renovation of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, describing the project as a game-changer for Memphis athletics and the city as a whole. The $226.5 million renovation remains on schedule for completion ahead of the 2026 football season and is designed to create a modern venue capable of hosting far more than just Memphis Tigers football. Kevin Cerrito discussed the rollout on Wednesday's (6/17) 92.9 FM ESPN J&J Show. AUDIO:
Scott has emphasized that the stadium must become a year-round destination, generating revenue through concerts, special events, wrestling, motocross, and other entertainment opportunities. The upgraded facility will feature a new four-level west tower, luxury suites, club seating, expanded premium hospitality areas, a fan plaza, enhanced entrances, and one of the largest video boards in college football.
With more than $201 million already raised toward the project, Scott believes the renovated stadium will strengthen Memphis' athletic profile, improve the fan experience, and position the university for long-term growth while creating a major entertainment asset for the entire Mid-South.
Memphis hosts Arkansas State on Saturday, May 5th, at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium
More from the University of Memphis:
Memphis Athletics Announces Enhancements to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Project
Link to Dr. Scott Press Conference:
https://gotigersgo.com/watch?Archive=23524&type=Archive
June 17, 2026
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - University of Memphis Senior Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Ed Scott announced new enhancements to the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovation project during a press briefing Tuesday afternoon at the Penny Hardaway Hall of Fame. Scott confirmed that the project, which officially began in May 2024, remains on schedule for completion ahead of the 2026 football season.
Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, now owned by the Memphis Athletic Foundation (formerly the Auxiliary Services Foundation), is in the final stages of its $226.5 million renovation and is expected to be completed in late August, prior to the Tigers’ home opener on September 5. Construction partners MFA, Barton Malow, and Populous continue to advance work towards a September 1 timeline.
The overall renovation includes upgraded premium seating, enhanced fan amenities, modernized infrastructure, and expanded revenue-generating spaces; all designed to elevate the game day experience and strengthen Memphis Athletics’ long-term competitiveness at the highest level of collegiate athletics.
Below are details outlining the enhancements to the technology within the stadium and the overall infrastructure.
New South End Zone Videoboard
- Features an enhanced 10-millimeter resolution (previous videoboard was 15-millimeter resolution)
- The largest videoboard in the stadium's history at 47'x114'
- As large as videoboards at Ohio St, Ole Miss, Miss. St and Arizona State
New North End Zone Videoboard
- Features an enhanced 10-millimeter resolution
- Previous board was a 15-millimeter resolution
- Full video capabilities
Mega Ribbon Board
- At 17' x 284', the Mega Ribbon Board will be one of the largest in the country
- Features an 8-millimeter enhanced resolution
- Mega Ribbon Board will revolutionize the game day experience for all fans
360 Distributed Audio System
- Distributed audio system with subwoofer enhancements
- Provides 360-degree coverage for an immersive game day experience
- Enhances experience for every fan in the stadium
LED Entertainment Lighting System
- Musco Color-Changing Sports Lighting System
- Color-Changing LED Lighting installed throughout the concourse for a comprehensive upgrade to the stadium's aesthetics
- Installed to elevate game day experience
East Side Window Replacement: The East side windows will be fully replaced to feature a sleeker look and enhanced visibility for fans while replacing the red mullions. These windows also feature hoppers that open from the top, providing fans the ability to better connect with the game while remaining indoors.
Sealing of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium: The stadium's expansion joints have been replaced, and the bowl has been recoated for waterproofing. These efforts will resolve many of the leaks fans have seen over the years. This process has involved physically removing every bleacher and chairback, power washing, and recoating the concrete bowl. The result will be a clean, rejuvenated look within the stadium.
Painting of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium: The concourse will receive fresh paint in addition to many of the structural columns. The exterior ring of the bowl will be repainted. A stadium-wide effort is additionally being made to remove the red trim throughout the facility.
North Tunnel: The new North Tunnel will allow for semi-trucks and large vehicles to access the field for special events. In addition, a secondary ramp has been maintained for small equipment and pedestrian access. These entry points will allow for large-scale special events to be held in the stadium for the first time in decades.
These enhancements are designed to elevate both the fan experience and recruiting atmosphere while positioning Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium as a year-round destination for the City of Memphis.
Fans interested in club seating, suite opportunities or other premium options are encouraged to visit memphisathleticfoundation.org or schedule a personalized tour in the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Experience Center. With inventory rapidly diminishing, now is the time to secure a place in the next era of Memphis Football.
For additional information on season tickets, premium seating opportunities or the 2026 Memphis football season, fans can visit GoTigersGo.com or contact the Memphis Athletics Ticket Office (901-678-2331).
Renovations will be complete by Memphis Tigers FB Home Opener
Renovations will be complete by Memphis Tigers FB Home Opener
