The Jacksonville Jaguars have announced that they have chosen HOK, the architectural design firm behind the redesign of the Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, to lead the redesign of their own stadium, TIAA Bank Field. The move is part of the Jaguars’ efforts to modernize their stadium and improve the fan experience.
Jaguars President Mark Lamping spoke to VenuesNow about the decision to select HOK, saying, “HOK was praised for their thorough understanding of the current stadium and their ability to find innovative solutions to the various issues”. Lamping also highlighted the importance of providing shade and protection from the rain for fans, stating that “having a full roof at a stadium, like the one at the Hard Rock Stadium, can significantly improve comfort for sensitive individuals by providing shade and protection from the rain. The design of the Hard Rock Stadium also allows for good air flow within the seating area. A roof at TIAA Bank Field would provide similar benefits and allow for more non-NFL events to be held at the stadium”.
The addition of a roof at TIAA Bank Field has been a topic of discussion for some time, and has been welcomed by many Jaguars fans who have had to endure the hot and sometimes rainy conditions during games. Jessie Pawlish, a Jaguars fan, spoke to Action News Jax about the potential roof, saying “Season ticket holders for the Jacksonville Jaguars, particularly those who attend games during the hottest times of the year, have expressed their desire for a roof at the stadium. Many have questioned when a roof will be installed and have asked what needs to be done in order to make it happen. The lack of a roof at TIAA Bank Field has been a source of frustration for some fans, who have had to endure the hot and sometimes rainy conditions during games. The addition of a roof would provide much needed shade and protection from the rain, improving the comfort and experience of fans.”
Mayor Lenny Curry also released a statement expressing his support for the renovations and commitment to improving the fan experience at TIAA Bank Field. He said, “Mayor Lenny Curry has expressed his support for the Jacksonville Jaguars and their efforts to renovate TIAA Bank Field. According to Curry, the Jaguars have made significant contributions to the Jacksonville community and his administration is working to ensure a positive experience for fans at the stadium and in downtown Jacksonville.
As part of this commitment, the city is partnering with the Jaguars to begin the process of renovating the stadium and investing in the downtown area. While the renovations are still in the early stages, Curry stated that he is confident that future administrations will continue this legacy of investing in the Jaguars, the local infrastructure, and the downtown area. The renovations are expected to include the addition of a roof to provide shade and protection from the rain for fans, which has been a topic of discussion for some time. Many Jaguars fans have welcomed the prospect of a roof, as it would provide relief from the hot and sometimes rainy conditions during games.”
