Changes are coming to EverBank Field - changes that will cost in the neighborhood of $63 million.
It was standing room only in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ locker room at EverBank Field Wednesday afternoon as Jaguars President Mark Lamping explained what’s in store for the stadium.
“These enhancements include major upgrades in our video capabilities, including two new end-zone scoreboards that will be the first of their kind in the world," he said. "That’s right—the biggest and best scoreboards in the world will be at EverBank Field here in Jacksonville Florida.”
The new video scoreboards will each measure 55 by 301 feet.
According to the planners, the project will also include:
- Seven new LED display boards, and
- A new platform area in the north end zone with pools, unique food and beverage offerings, interactive activities and much more than will entertain and serve guests in a fashion that celebrates the vibe and spirit of life in Jacksonville . Construction of the platform will result in the removal of approximately 7,000 seats, though temporary seating can be installed for major events that will require a larger stadium capacity.
And all of it is expected to be ready for the start of the 2014 season.
The $63 million price tag will be shared more-or-less equally by the Jaguars and the city of Jacksonville. The Jags have also agreed to serve as the construction manager, which will make any cost overruns their responsibility. Any savings will be used for additional improvements at EverBank Field.
As for the city's portion of the bill, City Council President Bill Bishop says that will come from a variety of user fees.
“Stay in a hotel, you pay a bed tax. It comes from sales tax generated by activities that happen here in the sports complex. It doesn’t come from people’s property taxes," says Bishop. "And so, in that sense it’s a good thing because these kinds of funds give us the ability to invest in our sports complex, which has been shown time and time again to be a net revenue generator for the city.”
It's all about staying competitive, he says.
“EverBank Field and Jacksonville will now be able to compete for the very best events in sports and entertainment while ensuring a great home for the Jaguars and experience for their fans. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
