Construction on the new Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park reached a significant milestone in October 2025 as crews completed installation of the natural-grass playing field. Work began on October 7, when the first rolls of sod were laid across the field’s prepared base layer. By October 10, the installation was largely complete, and images released by the Buffalo Bills showed the lush green surface taking shape inside the 62,000-seat venue. On October 19, the team shared a timelapse video highlighting the completed field and the rapid transformation across the $2.1 billion project site.
The field installation marks a key transition from major structural construction to interior finishing and systems integration. With the natural turf now in place, work has shifted to seating, mechanical, electrical, and fan experience systems that will define the new stadium’s interior.
Topping-out, Seat installation
Earlier in the year, the project achieved several major milestones. On April 4, 2025, project leaders confirmed 50% completion during the topping-out milestone, which marked the placement of the final structural steel beam — part of a framework comprising more than 22,000 steel pieces weighing over 25,000 tons. The installation of the first seats followed on May 6, 2025, beginning in the lower bowl section and continuing throughout the summer and fall as thousands of seats were added across multiple levels.
According to official updates, the new Highmark Stadium was reported 50% complete on April 4, 2025, and over 70% complete by August 27, 2025. As of October 8, 2025, the project remained listed at about 70% completion, with construction now concentrated on interior build-out, seating, and field-level systems. The stadium remains on schedule for completion ahead of the 2026 NFL season, bringing the Buffalo Bills one step closer to their state-of-the-art new home in Orchard Park.
Across the United States, a wave of massive stadium construction projects is transforming the sports landscape. From NFL arenas to college facilities, teams and cities are investing billions of dollars in modern, fan-focused venues featuring advanced technology, sustainability measures, and premium experiences. This surge reflects a nationwide effort to replace aging structures and create next-generation stadiums designed to serve as both athletic and entertainment hubs for decades to come.
Design
The stadium design combines function and form with a 360-degree canopy that covers 65 percent of seats, protects fans from rain, and enhances the stadium’s appearance. Advanced features include heated concourses, heated seating areas, and the world’s largest snow melt system. High-tech sensors control this system to regulate snow accumulation on the roof.
The construction team, led by Gilbane/Turner, is currently installing the canopy at the top level, which will be 116 feet above grade, roughly twice the height of the existing stadium. At the same time, workers are putting precast material in place to form the building’s exterior shell. This spring, architectural panels, perforated metal, and glass will transform the outside of the building, offering views of Lake Erie and the downtown Buffalo area.
Yet another feature of the new stadium is technology. With two enormous video boards and a cutting-edge acoustic system, the stadium will treat fans to a world-class audiovisual experience, enabling them to catch every play to its maximum potential. The upper deck will offer panoramic views of the region, including Lake Erie, downtown Buffalo. And the surrounding Boston Hills, offering a unique atmosphere for sports and concerts.
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A new multipurpose events venue
As well as the game, the new Highmark Stadium is also intended to serve as a multipurpose events venue, which can host any amount of activities, be it concerts and festivals or community events. It will also be provided with state-of-the-art facilities, from various types of concessions, kitchens, and retail stores, so that fans will have an experience both inside and outside the stadium.
As work continues to progress, workers are already making great strides in finishing the roof and the exterior of the stadium. Glass and precast architectural panels will be going up soon, and the canopy of the stadium will start to take shape, further solidifying its position as a new icon in Western New York.
Last Month, Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the long-term economic impact, stating, “This stadium is not just about providing the Buffalo Bills with a new home; it is a long-term economic boost to the Western New York economy, creating new jobs and opportunities for the region.”
New York State Building and Construction Trades Council President Gary LaBarbera added further, “The building of this stadium is not just about sports; it’s good-paying jobs and a real shot at the middle class for a lot of hardworking people in Western New York.”
With its cutting-edge technology, stunning appearance, and unparalleled amenities, the new Highmark Stadium will be a game-changer for the Buffalo Bills and their supporters, with a lasting legacy for the region.
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Construction Update: Sod installation at New Highmark Stadium
Project Factsheet
Overview
Project: New Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park
Status: 70% completed, sod installation completed
Budget: $2.1 billion
Completion: Ready for 2026 NFL season
Capacity: 60,000 seats
Key Features
360-degree canopy covering 65% of seats
Heated concourses and seating areas
World’s largest snow melt system with high-tech sensors
Two massive video boards and advanced acoustic system
Upper deck offering panoramic views of Lake Erie, downtown Buffalo, and Boston Hills
New Highmark Stadium construction Update
April 4, 2025: Topping-out ceremony held; project reaches 50% completion
May 6, 2025: First seat installed in the lower bowl section
August 27, 2025: Project reported over 70% complete
October 7–10, 2025: Natural grass sod installed across the playing field; timelapse video released October 19
Multipurpose Design
Venue for sports, concerts, festivals, and community events
State-of-the-art concessions, kitchens, and retail stores
Enhanced fan experience both inside and outside the stadium
Read also: Manchester United’s new 100,000-seater stadium plans unveiled
