USF officials have taken a significant step towards building an on-campus stadium by approving the USF Stadium Construction Management Agreement. The $340 million project is set to begin construction this fall. The agreement was unanimously approved by the Board of Trustees Finance Committee, with little discussion before the vote. The full Board of Directors will vote on the agreement during their next meeting on June 4.
Manhattan Construction Co., HJ Russell & Co., and DuCon LLC have been selected to manage the construction of the stadium. Manhattan Construction Co. brings extensive experience with sports projects, including renovations to Raymond James Stadium. HJ Russell & Co. is a project management firm based in Atlanta, while DuCon, LLC is a Sarasota-based construction company designated as a Minority Business Enterprise.
The construction managers will propose a “Guaranteed Maximum Price” (GMP) for the project, which will be approved by the university. The outdoor stadium, with a capacity of 35,000, will be home to the USF football and women’s lacrosse teams. The construction manager’s fees for preconstruction phases and construction services are outlined in the agreement, with USF retaining the right to terminate the contract at any time.
The stadium is expected to be substantially complete by the 2027 football season, with penalties for delays in construction outlined in the agreement. The project completion date is set for March 31, 2027, with a commitment to using small businesses, women-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses for a portion of design and construction costs.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the stadium is scheduled to take place during Homecoming Week in October. The stadium is projected to be a significant addition to the USF campus, enhancing the athletic facilities for both the football and women’s lacrosse programs.
In conclusion, the approval of the USF Stadium Construction Management Agreement marks a crucial milestone in the development of the on-campus stadium project. The collaboration with experienced construction firms and the commitment to utilizing diverse businesses in the construction process demonstrate a strategic approach to building a state-of-the-art facility for USF athletics. The timeline for completion and the penalties for delays underscore the importance of meeting construction deadlines to ensure the stadium is ready for the 2027 football season. Overall, the stadium project is poised to enhance the campus experience for students, athletes, and fans alike.
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https://www.usforacle.com/2024/05/22/usf-board-of-trustees-approves-construction-agreement-for-campus-stadium/
