Bank Of America Stadium, the long-standing home for the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, is poised for a significant transformation. For nearly three decades, this stadium has been a cornerstone for fans and the Charlotte community. Kristi Coleman, Carolina Panthers team president, emphasized the importance of this upgrade, stating, “Bank of America Stadium has been a special place for our Panthers, and now Charlotte FC, fans for nearly 30 years. While Bank of America Stadium has solid infrastructure, investments are needed to ensure that our decades-old venue continues to deliver the best experience for our players, fans, and community.” These renovations aim to ensure the stadium remains a premier destination for sports and entertainment for decades to come.
Enhancing Fan Experience at Bank of America Stadium
The planned renovations at Bank of America Stadium are designed to dramatically elevate the fan experience. Imagine approaching the stadium and being greeted by a welcoming, park-like perimeter, complete with large exterior video boards perfect for pre-game gatherings and watch parties. Once inside, fans will be immersed in cutting-edge technology, including a brand-new, state-of-the-art sound system, a vibrant new scoreboard, and enhanced video boards throughout the venue.
Beyond technology upgrades, the stadium will feature exciting and unique social areas offering stunning skyline views of Charlotte. Food and beverage options will be significantly improved with expanded concessions featuring beloved regional culinary offerings, providing a taste of the Carolinas. For fans looking to show their team spirit, the Team Store will be expanded to better serve both Panthers and Charlotte FC supporters. Reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region, arts and culture elements will be thoughtfully integrated throughout the stadium’s design.
Key Upgrades for Bank of America Stadium
The renovation project encompasses a wide range of essential upgrades designed to improve every aspect of the stadium experience. Key improvements include:
- New Seating Throughout the Bowl: Brand-new seats will be installed throughout the stadium bowl, ensuring greater comfort for all fans.
- Improved Accessibility: Accessibility will be significantly enhanced throughout the facility, designed to provide individuals with disabilities barrier-free access to all areas.
- Stadium Safety and Security Enhancements: Safety and security are paramount, with upgrades including illuminated wayfinding systems and improved lighting to ensure a secure environment for all attendees.
- Reimagined South Lawn Pavilion: The South Lawn Pavilion area will be transformed into a versatile community gathering space, serving as an outdoor classroom and community spot on both game days and non-event days.
- Upgraded Restrooms: Restrooms throughout Bank of America Stadium will be modernized for improved sustainability, enhanced accessibility, and faster service.
- Exterior Enhancements: The stadium’s exterior will be revitalized, reaffirming its iconic status as a beloved fixture of the Charlotte skyline.
- Modernized Building Systems: The stadium will undergo a significant modernization of its building systems, including mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, reducing its environmental impact and demand on city infrastructure.
Joe LaBue, Charlotte FC team president, highlighted the importance of the stadium for the soccer club, stating, “Bank of America Stadium provides our Club one of the best home pitch advantages in Major League Soccer. It also serves as a pillar of our community that supports our mission to be a unifying force in the city.”
A Partnership for Charlotte’s Future
This ambitious renovation project is a collaborative partnership between Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) and the City of Charlotte. The total investment in Bank of America Stadium includes:
- A $650 million fixed investment from the City of Charlotte over the term of the partnership, funded by existing hospitality and tourism tax resources. These funds are legally restricted to projects that support the city’s tourism economy and cannot be used for other city functions.
- Over $688 million total investment by Tepper Sports & Entertainment, which includes $117 million already invested prior to June 2024, and an estimated $571 million committed to the renovation and ongoing capital improvements.
This partnership underscores a commitment to ensuring Bank of America Stadium remains a top-tier venue and a vital economic engine for Charlotte. Kristi Coleman further noted, “Our goal is to build a collaborative partnership so that this community asset can continue to generate unique and memorable experiences for fans, as well as economic impact for the city and region for years to come.”
Tepper Sports & Entertainment is also committed to supporting minority-owned and small businesses throughout the renovation process, aligning with Charlotte’s Business Inclusion program. This commitment includes proactive recruitment and apprenticeship programs to enhance capacity and broaden opportunities within the community.
Bank of America Stadium: A Community and Economic Engine
Bank of America Stadium plays a crucial role in Charlotte’s economy and community life. Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation, and Bank of America Stadium is a key destination for major sports and entertainment events. Despite being one of the older stadiums in the NFL, it remains one of the most active, hosting nearly 40 ticketed events each year.
Since 2018, TSE has expanded the stadium’s programming beyond the NFL season to include MLS and international soccer matches, major concerts, NCAA and high school football games, and numerous corporate and community events. In 2023, events at Bank of America Stadium were responsible for 9 of the 10 busiest days in Uptown Charlotte and generated an impressive $1.1 billion in economic impact for the city.
Next Steps
The Charlotte City Council will be discussing the Bank of America Stadium renovation project in the coming weeks. This project represents a significant investment in the future of Bank of America Stadium, solidifying its place as a premier venue and a vital asset for Charlotte for years to come.
