News Summary
Cleveland has officially announced the selection of AECOM Hunt and Turner Construction Company as construction managers for Ohio’s first enclosed stadium, Huntington Bank Field. Slated to open for the NFL season, the $2.4 billion project is a key economic development initiative, aiming to generate thousands of jobs and grow the local economy. Designed by HKS, the stadium will enhance the fan experience with its innovative enclosed structure and is expected to have a significant impact on the Cleveland Browns and the surrounding community.
Cleveland Announces Construction Management Team for New $2.4 Billion Enclosed Stadium
Cleveland, Ohio, has taken a significant step forward in its plan to build Ohio’s first enclosed stadium, with the Haslam Sports Group (HSG) and Cleveland Browns officially selecting AECOM Hunt and Turner Construction Company to serve as construction managers for the project. The development, centered around the new Huntington Bank Field, marks the area’s largest economic development initiative to date.
Project Overview and Timeline
The new stadium is set to open in time for the 2029 NFL season, with construction officially underway since October 1, 2025. Early stage work has involved site preparation, grading, and utility installation, aiming to keep the project on schedule. A formal groundbreaking ceremony is planned for early 2026, bringing the vision closer to reality. The stadium will feature a capacity of approximately 67,500 seats, with the ability to expand to 75,000 for large-scale events such as concerts and other sporting competitions.
Design and Features
The stadium’s design, led by the renowned sports architecture firm HKS, draws inspiration from local landmarks such as Lake Erie and the skyline of Cleveland, creating a structure that reflects regional identity. The design emphasizes fan engagement and stadium innovation, bringing spectators closer to the action on the field. Unlike traditional open-air stadiums, Huntington Bank Field will be enclosed, enhancing the fan experience and allowing for year-round events.
Economic and Community Impact
The project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for Northeast Ohio. It is estimated that more than 6,000 construction jobs will be created during the building phase, with thousands of additional full-time positions anticipated in the stadium operations and the surrounding mixed-use development. The initiative aims to stimulate local economic growth through increased tourism, event hosting, and community activity.
Funding for the $2.4 billion stadium involves multiple sources. Approximately $600 million will come from state financing, supplemented by site-generated city taxes, which will cover an additional $300 million through borrowing. Local partners contributing expertise include the DiGeronimo Companies and Independence Excavating, both recognized for their regional construction experience.
Partnership and Experience
The construction management team brings over 55 years of combined NFL stadium project experience. Past projects include high-profile venues such as Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and SoFi Stadium in California. Their involvement underscores the project’s ambition to create a world-class sports and entertainment venue.
Future Impact on Cleveland and the Cleveland Browns
The new stadium is viewed as a critical asset for the Cleveland Browns, expected to bolster the team’s future success and serve as a catalyst for surrounding development. The existing Browns stadium lease expires at the end of the 2028 season, aligning with the planned opening of Huntington Bank Field, which is designed to elevate the regional sports experience.
The project also aims to develop a vibrant entertainment district that will attract visitors year-round, fostering long-term economic growth in Northeast Ohio. Local officials highlight the project’s potential to leave a lasting legacy, positioning Cleveland as a prominent destination for sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Construction Progress and Future Steps
Early work indicates a proactive approach to meeting project milestones, with accelerated site operations demonstrating strong commitment to completing the stadium on schedule. As construction continues, additional details regarding the design, financing, and community engagement are expected to be announced to ensure transparency and collaboration throughout the development process.
Overall, the Cleveland stadium project represents a major investment in the region’s infrastructure, economy, and community life, promising a modern venue that will serve Northeast Ohio for decades to come.
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland Browns: AECOM Hunt and Turner Construction Announce New Stadium
- Sports Illustrated: Cleveland Browns Stadium Update
- Cleveland 19 News: Work Underway on New Cleveland Browns Stadium
- Wikipedia: Cleveland Browns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ohio
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