New Miami Stadium Renovations Nearing Completion
By Steve Boland
Now a couple of months before the start of the season, the renovations of the still-nameless stadium have seemingly stayed on track, though there is much speculation if it will be ready for the season opener.
Technically, it is called the “New Miami Stadium” for now and the upgrades could be complete by the third week of the season for the team’s home opener. The Dolphins currently have plans for their second preseason game to be played on the Florida Atlantic University campus, assuming the stadium remains under construction come late August.
South Florida Broadcaster Hank Goldberg recently reported that the stadium renovations might not be complete until November, however the organization denied this report and says they are on pace to be playing football in the stadium by September 1st. However, if the delay were to last that long, both the Hurricanes and Dolphins would have to move four regular season games elsewhere.
It does seem pretty plausible that the stadium might need to extend its targeted finish date, as senior vice president of the team, Bill Senn said, “Getting a project of this scale done in this time frame is unprecedented, and the contractor is working diligently on a 24/7 basis to complete the canopy structure.”
Goldberg also reported the Hurricanes are already in discussions regarding the move of their season opener on September 3rd to another location, and have a contingent plan in place to do so.
The upgrades are certainly worthwhile nonetheless, as the main target feature of the stadium is to facilitate a top-class entertainment and playing environment within the walls of the stadium. A huge component of this is the addition of 32 ‘living rooms’ in the form of seats in the ’72 Club which debuted last season. They have replaced every single seat in the stadium in tandem with improved concessions and redesigned concourses.
The ’72 Club is the biggest upgrade with a vintage Miami lounge preceding the entrance to the field. The top of the line seats have the option to be equipped with TV’s positioned between each seat. This space is being highlighted to bring an experience like you’re watching the game at home.
Paspalum grass will be the new playing turf, highlighted by in-stadium lighting. The fans will also benefit from high-definition highlights and replays on the largest screens in the division.
Despite all of the questioning, the renovations are in the homestretch. With a Super Bowl already scheduled in a few years, the Dolphins organization and the rest of the NFL can’t wait for its debut.