Renderings of Northwestern University’s $850M Ryan Field Released

New Stadium Unveiled with Improved Sightlines and Noise Reduction

As construction cranes swung over the space where Ryan Field used to stand, renderings of the new stadium at Northwestern University were unveiled on Monday.

Features and Design

All 35,000 seats are engineered to put fans as close to the field as possible, promising “better than TV” sightlines.

There will also be 200,000 square feet of parks and plazas surrounding the stadium for tailgating and other pre-game activities as well as seasonal events. The new stadium will also include four premium clubs that will be available year-round.

Noise Reduction and Acoustics

Stadium designers plan to use engineering to create a better homefield advantage, essentially taking all the sound that comes from the stands and pushing it back toward the field.

Timeline and Completion

The Wildcats will play this season and next in a temporary lakefront stadium. The new Ryan Field is expected to be completed in 2026.

Community Impact

Noise was a major concern of residents who opposed allowing the university to host concerts and other events.

But the Evanston City Council’s approval cleared the way for construction of the new venue, which, unlike plans for a new White Sox stadium or Bears stadium, does not call for public money.

Conclusion

The new Ryan Field promises to be a state-of-the-art venue that will not only host Northwestern’s football program but also serve as a hub for community events and activities.

FAQs

• What is the cost of the new Ryan Field?

$850 million

• When is the new stadium expected to be completed?

2026

• Will the new stadium include public seating?

Yes, all 35,000 seats are designed to put fans as close to the field as possible.

• Will the new stadium host concerts and other events?

Yes, the stadium will include four premium clubs that will be available year-round, and it will also host seasonal events and activities.