News Summary
The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to begin a $1.4 billion renovation of EverBank Stadium, transforming it into the ‘Stadium of the Future.’ Fans will miss home games in 2024, with renovations expected to enhance the game-day experience. The project aims to be completed by 2028 and includes initiatives to support local businesses during this interim period. Despite the hurdles, a commitment from the city ensures the Jaguars will remain in Jacksonville for the foreseeable future.
Jacksonville Jaguars Take the Leap into a High-Tech Future!
Exciting times are coming for Jacksonville football fans! The Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for a major transformation with the upcoming renovations to EverBank Stadium, dubbed the “Stadium of the Future.” However, there’s a catch—fans will have to wait until the 2025 season to enjoy home games again. Yep, you heard it right! The Jaguars won’t play at home during the 2024 season as construction kicks off on the ambitious $1.4 billion renovation project.
What’s Happening?
Starting in February 2025, EverBank Stadium will undergo significant renovations to revamp the 30-year-old venue. This impressive project, set to be completed in time for the 2028 NFL season, aims to enhance the game-day experience for fans while keeping up with the demands of modern football.
In the meantime, the city of Jacksonville is bracing itself for the impact of the Jaguars’ home game absence. Estimates suggest that the city could lose around 125,000 room nights due to the lack of home games in 2024, which would have a ripple effect on local businesses that rely heavily on game day traffic.
Bringing the Community Together
To help mitigate the upcoming impact, the city has launched the “Bring It Home” campaign. This initiative encourages community members and businesses to host conferences, events, and other gatherings in Jacksonville, ensuring a bustling atmosphere, even without the thrill of home games.
Construction Buzz
So, what’s on the agenda for the ambitious renovation project? The Jaguars have already submitted a building permit application for a $43.13 million project focusing on essential improvements such as waterproofing, expansion joints, and vertical transportation enhancements. Expect to see a mix of structural cast-in-place construction, waterproofing efforts, and the addition of an underground electrical duct bank!
A Bright Future
In addition to the essential construction work, the Jaguars have some exciting plans for the new stadium features. Fans can look forward to expanded concourses, park-like entrances, corner openings to boost airflow, and even a reflective coating to keep things cool. What a treat to enjoy football without melting away under the Florida sun!
A Commitment to Stay
On October 15, 2024, NFL owners gave a thumbs-up for the Jaguars’ deal with the city, securing a financial commitment of $775 million from Jacksonville and $625 million from the Jaguars. The agreement also includes a 30-year lease and a non-relocation clause, ensuring the Jaguars remain a proud part of the Jacksonville community.
What’s Next for Game Days?
While the renovations are happening, the Jaguars plan to play at a reduced capacity during the 2025 and 2026 seasons. It’s possible that some home games could shift to Gainesville or Orlando in 2027. Fans can also look forward to exciting international matches, as the Jaguars will be playing up to six home games abroad during the renovation period, with one of those being an annual event in London!
Impact on Local Events
Renovations will also influence Jacksonville’s iconic Florida-Georgia game and various concerts, which may need to find new homes in other cities temporarily.
Getting Local Businesses Involved
The Jaguars are committed to involving local businesses in this renovation journey. They’re partnering with the city’s Small & Emerging Business Division to maximize participation from Jacksonville’s local contractors and vendors in the renovation project.
Conclusion
Jacksonville, get ready for a spectacular transformation at EverBank Stadium! With the Jaguars embarking on this exciting renovation journey, it may seem like a long wait until the team is back home, but the future is definitely looking bright. Stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to this grand project begins!
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Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record: Jaguars Seek $43.1 Million Permit for Stadium Renovation
- Wikipedia
- Sports Illustrated: Jaguars’ Tony Khan on Liam Coen Hire
- Google Search: Jacksonville Jaguars news
- NFL: Jaguars Stadium of the Future Approved
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jacksonville Jaguars
- News4Jax: Shad Khan Purchases Jacksonville Fairgrounds
- Google News: Jaguars
