Riverhounds Stadium – design description

How can the plans for the expansion of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s stadium be summarized?

The planned expansion of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s stadium (known commercially as Highmark Stadium) will be the largest investment in the short history of the venue, which was inaugurated in 2013.

Following the modernization, the modest venue – which until now has held around 5,000 spectators – will triple its capacity, opening up new opportunities for the club’s growth. The stadium will retain its “open” northern side, continuing to offer attractive views of the Monongahela River and the impressive skyline of downtown Pittsburgh.

The expansion is scheduled for completion in 2028, which would enable Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC to potentially join the newly announced USL Division One, expected to launch in the same year.

Who are Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC?

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC is a soccer club founded in 1998. The team currently competes in the USL Championship, the second tier of the U.S. soccer league system, just below Major League Soccer (MLS).

Where have Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC played so far?

In 2012–2013, the Riverhounds built their own purpose-built soccer stadium on the banks of the Monongahela River. It is a fairly modest venue – originally accommodating just over 3,000 spectators, with capacity later increased to 5,000 following an expansion in 2018.

The stadium stands out for its attractive location and exceptional views of downtown Pittsburgh’s skyline.

The venue is known as Highmark Stadium, named after its title sponsor – Highmark, a Pittsburgh-based health insurance company that has also held the naming rights to the NFL team Buffalo Bills’ stadium since 2021.

When were the plans for a major expansion of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s stadium announced?

On August 19, 2025, the club held a press conference to announce plans for a comprehensive expansion of the stadium and to unveil the first renderings of the project.

What does the expansion plan for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s stadium include?

The comprehensive redevelopment of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s existing stadium envisions the construction of new, significantly larger stands on three sides, while keeping the northern end “open” so that the venue will continue to offer attractive views of the river and the downtown skyline.

The expanded facility will accommodate 15,000 spectators, with most of the seating covered by a roof. The project also includes modern amenities, luxury suites, and banquet areas.

The expansion is intended to allow Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC to join the planned USL Division One, expected to launch in 2028, while also increasing the venue’s potential and its ability to host more events. The plans were announced after several seasons of strong attendance at the club’s home games.

When will the expansion of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC’s stadium take place?

The project will be carried out in three phases and is expected to be completed in 2028, although no specific start date has been announced yet. The total cost is estimated at no less than $125 million and will be funded through a public–private partnership.