The University of Oklahoma plans to put a proposal before its regents next month that would authorize the school to seek construction bids on a renovation project that would close the south side of Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, a source told ESPN.com.
Because the university has yet to seek bids, it's unclear how much the proposed project would cost. But in addition to connecting the lower bowl, the source said the primary objective would be to improve and add suites as well as fan amenities such as concession stands and restrooms. The project, however, is not expected to substantially increase Memorial Stadium's seating capacity of 82,000; instead, it would aim to create better and more comfortable seating throughout the stadium.
The expected completion date is before the 2016 season.
On top of a remodeling of the press box, the project would also add and renovate the athletic office building on the south end of the stadium, where the coaches' offices reside. The project would be paid for by funds from the athletic department budget.
Along with the stadium project, the university is expected to transform Bud Wilkinson Dormitory into an athletic academic center. The dorm, which sits just to the east of Memorial Stadium's south end zone, was replaced by the $75 million Headington Hall, which was completed across the street last year.
The regents are scheduled to meet next June 23 in Ardmore, Oklahoma.