After receiving $10 million from the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency board, Florida A&M University is set to begin renovating Bragg Memorial Stadium at the end of the month.
After the board approved this monumental backing in mid-September, FAMU is now ready to begin construction in two phases. President Larry Robinson told FAMUnews.com that these renovations will continue to be a financial benefit to the Tallahassee community.
“The return on this investment will include positive economic outcomes for citizens on Tallahassee’s south side; excitement for persons who attend athletic events in the venue; and inspiration and pride for those who understand the cultural significance of all that occurs inside and around the stadium,” Robinson said.
For Kortne Gosha, vice president and director of athletics, the renovations will be the beginning of a new experience for Rattler fans.
“We’re excited to be able to address the life and safety issues that needed to be addressed,” Gosha said. “We want to create an environment and experience for all our fans, students and anyone who steps foot into Bragg Stadium. Having new bleacher systems and some of the upgrades that will begin later will make it second to none.”
Phase 1 of the Bragg Memorial Stadium renovations will focus heavily on the safety issues n the stadium. Gosha said these fixes will be complete by the 2021 football season.
Phase 2 will cover the remaining issues and upgrades that are scheduled to take place, but these renovations are set to begin at the conclusion of the football season.
“I think these renovations will boost fan turnout and bring out more students to home games,” Nikyya Smith, the Student Government Association athletics liaison, said. “I believe this will also help in recruiting by having a new facility to offer the players and fans.”
She said the renovations to the bleachers and restrooms will make an impact on student life, being that FAMU students make up a majority of fans at the games.
“I think students just like myself are most excited to get back to cheering on our Rattlers in every sport in the fall and hopefully are able to do that in the crowd at home games,” she added.
Gosha admits while he is excited for all the renovations to come, he can’t wait to see the upgrades made to the press box.
“I’m excited about all of it, but in particular the press box,” Gosha said. “Usually when people look at a football stadium they see a prominent press box with opportunities there. And again, the amenities — restrooms and the concession stands — our patrons get to see and experience a first-class facility.”