Posted on Jun 26
Jacksonville City Council approves $1.4 billion stadium renovation; Jaguars owner expresses gratitude
u/alex •
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- In a historic move for the city, the Jacksonville City Council has voted 14-1 to approve a $1.4 billion renovation agreement for EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The agreement, which requires approval from 24 of the NFL's 32 owners at the league's meetings in October, marks a significant step towards securing the future of professional football in Jacksonville.
The approved agreement outlines the renovation plans, with construction set to commence after the Jaguars' 2025 season and completion expected in time for the 2028 season. Under the terms of the deal, both the city and the Jaguars organization will contribute $625 million each towards the renovation costs. Additionally, the city will also allocate $150 million for maintenance and repairs.
While the city will bear 55% of the total cost, Jaguars owner Shad Khan has agreed to cover any potential cost overruns and 80.4% of game-day expenses. This collaborative effort between the city and the team demonstrates a commitment to preserving the Jaguars' presence in Jacksonville for years to come.
One of the standout features of the renovated stadium will be a shaded canopy covering every seat, inspired by the design of SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. This addition aims to enhance the fan experience by providing relief from the Florida heat and creating a more enjoyable atmosphere during games and events.
Moreover, the updated EverBank Stadium will have a capacity of 63,000 for Jaguars games, with the ability to expand to 70,000-plus for other events. This increased capacity will accommodate a wider range of sporting and entertainment activities, further solidifying Jacksonville's status as a premier destination for major events.
As part of the agreement, the Jaguars have committed to a 30-year lease that will commence once the stadium reopens after renovation. This long-term commitment ensures the team's continued presence in Jacksonville and provides stability for fans and the local community.
Additionally, the agreement specifies that the Jaguars will have a limit of one home game annually in London, unless mandated by the NFL for an additional international game every four seasons. This provision aims to maintain a balance between expanding the team's global reach while also prioritizing home games for the local fan base.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan expressed her excitement about the approved renovation agreement, calling it a "historic day" for the city. She emphasized the collaborative effort and unity displayed by the council, highlighting the generational progress that this significant investment represents.
Jaguars President Mark Lamping acknowledged the proactive approach taken by the team and city officials to ensure the long-term viability of professional football in Jacksonville. He praised owner Shad Khan's commitment to preventing the team from experiencing the challenges faced by other cities, emphasizing the realization of their goal thanks to the efforts of Mayor Deegan and her team.
With the approval of this transformative renovation agreement, Jacksonville is poised to elevate its status as a premier sports and entertainment destination. The investment in EverBank Stadium will not only enhance the gameday experience for Jaguars fans but also contribute to the economic growth and development of the city as a whole.