The University of Memphis will take ownership of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium from Memphis City Council ahead of the planned redevelopment of the facility. The arena is home to the college football team, the Tigers.

Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium was opened in 1965. The new football venue in Memphis was built as an attempt to draw Liberty Bowl games to the city. Initial seating layout was unusual, the bowl was much taller in the south-west, topped with a big press box. Steep stands and close proximity to the field gave the stadium recognition for sightlines. Capacity upon opening was some 50,0000 and the entire construction cost of under $4 million was recouped after just 16 sell-out games. And that with a very reasonable ticket price.

Since 1965 sell-outs were owed primarily to the Liberty Bowl and Memphis Tigers NCAA football team. All sports fans before they place any bet can check all the best high limit betting sites compiled along with everything else. While there were numerous other tenants at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium and one-off events, Liberty Bowl and Memphis Tigers games are the only regulars at the stadium since its opening. In 1987 the arena went through its only expansion to date. The north-east side has grown to match its larger counterpart. One major exception is that instead of a press box, this one has been given a larger VIP building at the top.

© University of Memphis

Tigers home venue to be modernised

In May 2022 the University of Memphis and the City of Memphis announced plans for a $150m to $200m renovation of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, after deciding not to build a new home for the Tigers. After exploring options with university and government leaders, the decision was made to focus on the transformation of the venue, with the new facility expected to cost at least $400 million. The design for the modernisation was prepared by the renowned studio Populous. In April this year the State of Tennessee approved a $350m contribution to stadium and arena projects in Memphis, including the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium redevelopment.

Priority elements of the wide-ranging project include the transformation of the west side of the stadium, providing several innovative premium seating options; while hospitality will be created in the halo space surrounding the stadium. Other new seating options will be installed, such as family boxes at the north end and a student patio at the south end; while the potential use and upgrade of the eastern suite tower will be explored.

Ownership of the venue transferred to the university

The University of Memphis will take ownership of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium and receive $120 million from the municipality to revamp the facility. Funds received by the City of Memphis earlier this year will also be used to renovate FedExForum, home of the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, and fund the construction of a new multipurpose stadium for USL Championship soccer club Memphis 901 FC.

© University of Memphis

The university said its goal would be to begin construction after the 2023 football season and complete the renovations before the 2025 season. Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium currently has a capacity of 58,325. The university said the final capacity will be determined once the design process is complete, adding that current estimates predict the number will remain above 50,000.