Arguably the most famous venue in college sports, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will be undergoing some serious renovations in the near future.
USC announced its preliminary plans for renovations to the historic Coliseum, costing $270 million.
The school took over day-to-day operations three years ago, and announced full control of the stadium in 2013.
“The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is a treasure not just for Los Angeles but for the state of California, and its renovation is long overdue,” said USC President C. L. Max Nikias. “Our Board of Trustees has enthusiastically endorsed our plans, and we are pleased to now present them to the Coliseum Commission. We believe these renovations will strengthen the Coliseum’s reputation as one of the world’s great venues and also will enhance our world-class athletic programs that utilize the Coliseum.”
The most significant change to the home of the Trojans is the seating capacity. The renovations will reduce seating from 93,607 to 77,500 to make room for a new structure that will include suites, club seats, a new concourse, and a new press box.
Other renovations include replacing every seat, adding aisles, restoring the peristyle look to make it resemble the original design, and updating technology throughout the stadium, among other things.
"We are committed to providing our players, coaches and fans with one of the best facilities in the nation," said athletic director Pat Haden. "This needed renovation to a stadium built in 1923 will ensure that the game-day experience gives all fans options to enjoy the stadium's new amenities while recognizing the loyalty of our longtime fans. It also will provide our football team with a first-class facility and a home-field advantage."
If approved, the renovations will begin after the 2017 season, and completed by 2019.