The new Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park has hit 50% completion with topping out ceremony. With the topping out construction phase complete, the stadium reached a crucial building milestone, bringing it into its state-of-the-art status. When finished, this $2.1 billion project will provide the Buffalo Bills with a state-of-the-art home and a world-class experience for sports fans and visitors.
Scheduled to be ready in advance of the 2026 NFL season, the new Highmark Stadium will provide a staggering 60,000 seats that have been designed for fan comfort and convenience. Already 50 percent constructed, the building has witnessed the installation of over 22,000 steel pieces weighing over 25,000 tons. The project follows sustainable methods, with 60 percent of the steel coming from New York State and nearly all materials manufactured locally within the United States.
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.
With the new Highmark Stadium topping out milestone reached, activity is progressing on both the interior and exterior of the stadium. 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, precast material is being put in place to form the building’s exterior shell. This spring, the outside of the building will be transformed through the installation of architectural panels, perforated metal, and glass that offers 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 construction of New Highmark Stadium hits 50% with topping out ceremony, 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.
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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New Highmark Stadium Reaches Topping Out Milestone: Project Factsheet
Overview
Project: New Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park
Status: 50% completed, topping out phase finished
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
Highmark Stadium Topping Out: Construction Highlights
Over 22,000 steel pieces installed (25,000+ tons)
60% of steel sourced from New York State
Nearly all materials manufactured within the United States
Construction progressing on roof and exterior
Glass and precast architectural panels installation upcoming
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
