University of Central Florida officials are exploring a potential expansion of Spectrum Stadium, but have plenty of factors to consider before deciding whether to proceed with a project.
On-field success has helped fuel demand for tickets to UCF football games, with the program posting strong attendance numbers in recent years. The possibility of accommodating the strong demand with an expansion project is one that UCF is currently looking into, as was confirmed recently by athletics director Danny White.
Any potential expansion could address a number of amenities, ranging from increasing the student seating capacity to adding more social spaces and premium areas. However, White is cautioning that UCF has plenty to consider before deciding whether to proceed with Spectrum Stadium expansion plans and that there is no timetable in place for such a project. For now, UCF is conducting some analysis. More from the Orlando Sentinel:
“We’re just doing a lot of analysis right now.”
For White, the top priority is expanding student section, a rowdy group that bolsters the Knights’ home-field advantage. Beyond that, he said any expansion would have factor in social spaces where fans can gather to stand around, talk and watch the game.
“When we look at an additional premium tower, we’ll be looking to maximize social interaction opportunities — probably a lot of standing room opportunities. Maybe not so much the traditional bleacher seat that you see in older stadiums,” White said. “We also want to be really smart with shade.”
There is no timetable yet on expansion, according to White, who said his department is still working through the idea and gathering research that includes working with sports staidum architects who will present some concepts for renovation.
Spectrum Stadium currently has a seating capacity of 44,206. It originally opened as Bright House Networks Stadium in 2007.
Image courtesy UCF Knights.