The University of Kansas has hit the milestone with the opening of the $400 million rededication of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, a crown jewel of the school’s broader Gateway District redevelopment. The stadium opened as the Jayhawks football team held its first official practice on the new field.
Turner Construction Company directed preconstruction and construction in a leadership capacity, overseeing a massive transformation that converted the stadium into a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility. The project included partial demolition and replacement of the building, building out premium suites, new press boxes, upgraded concessions and retail space, and a fan experience area developed to enrich game days. One of the most visible features of the redevelopment is the new campus gateway at 11th and Mississippi Street, which will be a welcoming entrance for students, alumni, and visitors alike.
Travis Goff, Director of Athletics at the University, attributed the building crew with being able to deliver the ambitious project even under challenging weather conditions. “Watching Turner’s crew push through snow and heat was heartening. They finished it on schedule, within budget, and in first-class style,” he added.
Significance of the project beyond the University
Turner executives also highlighted the significance of the project beyond the University. Jason Brown, Project Executive, noted that more than 1.6 million work hours were safely logged during construction. “This achievement reflects the commitment of our team, trade partners, and skilled workforce. Together, we’ve created a destination that will serve KU fans, students, and the community for years to come,” Brown said.
The renovations also extended to the Anderson Family Football Complex, where it experienced new training rooms and offices. Turner, who initially built the complex in 2008, cemented its time-honored relationship with KU with the recent renovations. The project was of personal significance to Turner President and KU alumnus Abrar Sheriff. “To be able to play a role in a project of this scale at my alma mater is very significant.”. The stadium is a doorway to pride and progress for generations,” he added.
The stadium is more than where to catch football games; the stadium is an open year-round destination for athletics, conferences, entertainment, retail, and dining. University officials believe it will enhance the regional economy, continue to connect campus with the city of Lawrence, and advance KU’s visibility on the national stage.
The work isn’t finished yet
While the $400M stadium redevelopment is finally complete, the KU is not yet finished renovating the surrounding area. Phase I of the Gateway District redevelopment has renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium with fresh seating, enhanced amenities, and a new west and north bowl. University officials have confirmed, however, that additional phases are planned, extending the project well beyond the stadium itself.
Phase II, which will begin after the 2025 football season, will entail reconstruction of the east and south seating sections as well as the development of a broader mixed-use district. The plans include a full-service hotel, student residential area, retail and restaurant space, office space, parking garage, and multi-use outdoor plaza. This second phase will be supported in part by a record-breaking $300 million gift from alumnus David Booth. Including $75 million for Phase II building in particular. The entire transformation is intended to improve campus-downtown connections and create a destination point year-round for students, fans, and the Lawrence community. David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is just one of many such projects currently on the rise in the U.S.
David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium Reconstruction: Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Project: David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium Reconstruction
Location: University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas
Total Investment: $400 million
Status: Completed
General Contractor: Turner Construction Company
Key Features
Gateway Development: New campus entrance at 11th and Mississippi Street
Multi-Purpose Design: Year-round venue for athletics, conferences, entertainment, retail, and dining
Anderson Family Football Complex: Upgraded offices and training facilities
Enhanced Fan Experience: Modern amenities and hospitality areas
Project Metrics
Work Hours: 1.6+ million hours logged safely
Timeline: Delivered on time and on budget
Workforce: Large-scale team including Turner employees, trade partners, and skilled workers
