Howard Terminal Stadium – design description

How did plans for a new stadium for the Oakland Roots SC come about?

Who are the Oakland Roots SC?

The soccer team Oakland Roots SC was founded in 2018. In 2019, the team joined the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA), and as of 2021, the team plays in the USL Championship (USLC), the second most prestigious soccer competition in the US (after MLS).

Where have the Oakland Roots SC performed so far?

Oakland Roots SC initially played in rather modest facilities – first it was Laney College Football Stadium, and from 2023 Pioneer Stadium. The next step was to be the construction of a stadium with mobile stands adjacent to the Oakland Coliseum.

However, due to the relocation of the MLB team, the Oakland Athletics, after the 2024 season, there was an opportunity to move to the famous Oakland Coliseum. Starting with the 2025 season, Oakland Roots SC will play games at this facility.

When were plans announced to build a new stadium for the Oakland Roots SC?

In late 2024, Oakland Roots SC announced plans to build a new stadium at Howard Terminal, on the Oakland Estuary waterfront. The site is located near downtown Oakland.

Previously, the possibility of building a new stadium in this location was considered by the MLB team, the Oakland Athletics, but the team is eventually expected to move to Las Vegas, where a brand new facility will be built.

What are the plans for a new stadium for Oakland Roots SC?

The new stadium for the Oakland Roots SC will be soccer-specific and will hold 25,000 spectators. The extravagant vision for the new venue was created by the well-known HOK studio. However, before the state-of-the-art stadium is built, a temporary facility for 15,000 people is to be erected in the first phase at Howard Terminal.

The Oakland Roots SC have not yet ruled out other locations, as well as staying at the Oakland Coliseum for the long term. However, a new facility at Howard Terminal is the preferred option the club intends to pursue.

Who will the new stadium at Howard Terminal serve?

The new stadium is intended to primarily serve the Oakland Roots SC, as well as the Oakland Soul SC women's team. The team was founded in 2022 by Oakland Roots SC and entered the USL W League in 2023. However, the team's ambition is to play in the USL Super League, the most prestigious women's soccer competition in the US (alongside the NWSL).