MASTER PLANNING / Programming

University of Houston TDECU Football Stadium

The University of Houston (UH) engaged Broaddus Planning to develop a detailed stadium facility program, room data sheets, site improvement scope, and preliminary cost estimate for the new stadium. The new stadium features an enhanced fan/spectator experience, modernized game day amenities, and an increased seating capacity with a variety of seating options. The stadium is oriented the same direction as the existing stadium and designed to frame a view of Houston’s downtown skyline. Premium and suite seating is on the west grandstand along with the press box while the east side and end-zones have general and student seating.

Inside the stadium, new locker rooms and a sports medicine area improved the student athlete experience. Modernized press facilities and improved back-of-house support space improved stadium functionality for people who work on game days. Outside the stadium, new permanent tailgate pavilions and improved student tailgate area add to the fan/spectator experience. Public entrance plazas, an extension of Cougar Way, and an improved Walk of Champions (the football team game day entrance processional) enhance the sense of arrival. Finally, the project was designed to accommodate a future expansion to 60,000 seats. By strategically planning for future growth, UH recognizes the importance of thinking about the long-term big picture while also planning for the immediate short-term needs.

Integral to the planning process was obtaining insight and critical feedback from the university’s user group representatives through small group interview sessions and a large group meeting. By engaging the personnel responsible for day-to-day use and operation of the facility, the planning team was able to capture their needs. Throughout the planning process, our estimating team provided conceptual cost estimates to UH to determine funding allocation requirements necessary for the project to receive approval. Our team was able to assist UH in addressing budget and schedule issues with the goal of completing construction in time for the 2014 football season.