STADIUM BUSINESS NEWS
Bears move forward with Indiana stadium plan after board vote
The Chicago Bears’ board of directors has voted to advance plans for a proposed new stadium development in Hammond, Indiana, marking the first time the organization has formally approved a potential stadium site. The move strengthens Indiana’s bid to land the franchise’s future home as the team weighs options beyond its current lease at Soldier Field. Read more here.
Mavericks acquire site for potential future arena development
The Dallas Mavericks have purchased 20 acres at the former Dallas mall site for $51 million, securing a potential location for a new arena as the team’s lease at American Airlines Center expires in 2031. The acquisition gives the franchise a redevelopment-ready site with existing infrastructure and sets the clock ticking on a project that could reshape the team’s long-term home and the surrounding entertainment district. Read more here.
Dallas Stars advance plans for new arena in Plano
The Dallas Stars have signed a non-binding letter of intent for a proposed arena and entertainment district at the Shops at Willow Bend redevelopment site in Plano, Texas. The project would anchor a mixed-use development featuring retail, dining and public gathering spaces, with the team targeting a move when its lease at American Airlines Center expires in 2031. Read more here.
Tampa Sports venue funding faces growing pressure
A key tourism-tax funding source supporting major sports venue projects in the Tampa Bay region is facing increasing pressure as demand grows from multiple stadium, convention center, and tourism-related initiatives. The funding debate could have major implications for future venue developments, including long-term plans involving the Tampa Bay Rays and other regional sports facilities. Read more here.
MLS pushes for broader Olympic Stadium redevelopment
MLS Commissioner Don Garber is urging Quebec to fund a wider renovation of Montreal’s Olympic Stadium, arguing the project is critical to the long-term future of CF Montréal. While a CA$870 million roof replacement is already underway and scheduled for completion in 2028, funding for interior upgrades has not yet been approved. Read more here.
STADIUM PROJECT NEWS
Athletics’ Las Vegas Stadium reaches roof construction milestone
Construction crews have lifted the first 200-ton arch truss into place at the Athletics’ future Las Vegas ballpark, marking the start of roof construction on the 33,000-seat MLB stadium. The venue’s distinctive pennant-inspired roof will span nearly 700 feet across the field and is scheduled to open for the 2028 season. Read more here.
Amway Stadium reaches topping-off milestone
Construction of Amway Stadium reached a major milestone with the placement of the final steel beam, marking the completion of the venue’s structural framework. The topping-off ceremony celebrated progress on the Grand Rapids stadium project as work continues toward opening day and the venue’s debut as a new community and sports destination. Read more here.
Chicago’s $7 Billion 1901 Project breaks ground near United Center
Construction has begun on the first phase of Chicago’s $7 billion 1901 Project, a mixed-use development surrounding the United Center that includes housing, retail, entertainment venues and public spaces across more than 55 acres. The initial $500 million phase features a 6,000-seat music hall, hotel, and park space, with completion targeted for 2028. Read more here.
Oklahoma City breaks ground on $121M multipurpose stadium
Construction has officially begun on Oklahoma City’s $121 million MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium, a 10,000-seat venue that will serve as the future home of OKC Energy FC and a new United Football League franchise. Designed by Populous, the stadium will anchor a broader sports and entertainment district and is scheduled to open in 2028. Read more here.
STADIUM PROJECT NEWS
ESPN deploys 80-plus cameras for Stanley Cup Final coverage
ESPN is using more than 80 cameras, including an over-ice SkyCam, on-ice SkateCams, referee body cameras and multiple super-slow-motion systems, for its 2026 Stanley Cup Final coverage. The broadcasts are being produced entirely in HDR, showcasing a growing trend toward immersive viewing experiences and advanced production workflows in live sports. Read more here.
Durwood Soccer Stadium adds video board and facility upgrades
Durwood Soccer Stadium is receiving a new 34-foot-wide LED videoboard, expanded camera coverage and upgraded player facilities as part of a broader enhancement project at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The improvements include an integrated video and analytics system, renovated locker rooms and fan-experience upgrades ahead of the 2026 soccer season. Read more here.
