Skanska, with joint venture partner Congleton-Hacker, provided preconstruction and construction management services for the renovation and expansion of the 880,170-SF, 61,000-seat Commonwealth Stadium at the University of Kentucky (UK). Upgrades to premium spaces for spectators and press included a new press box for broadcast and print media that provides dedicated space for visiting coaches, home radio, press dining and network media. The tower above the south upper deck features 27 new suites with high-end finishes and kitchen facilities. Single suites have 14 seats each and double suites have 30 seats each. The Loge Club provides 150 premium outdoor seats that also have a private television for each spectator. The south sideline, with 1,852 premium outdoor seats, include a Coaches Club with dedicated lounge and a Loft Club with dedicated lounge and private access patio. The stadium also features the Woodford Reserve Lounge with a "bourbon barrel" theme and includes two premium food and beverage areas with custom made leather belt walls, bourbon barrel end tables, and long wood walls with tongue and groove reclaimed barn wood. Improvements were made to home team facilities including the team meeting room, coaches' lounge, media/interview room, exam/x-ray room and equipment storage. The project also provided a recruiting/multi-purpose room with private access patio with views to the playing field at the east endzone. In addition, improvements throughout the stadium included a new ticket office; full service kitchen, concessions and restrooms; expanded upper and lower concourse on the north side for concessions, restrooms, and better spectator circulation; new site amenities including entry gates and plazas, landscaped areas, and television broadcast truck area; all new exterior and interior signage with new UK logo and brand identity; and a Wall of Honor recognizing outstanding coaches and players.
