Sports Facility Construction Industry Trends [2023]

Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by UDC Sports

The sports facility and stadium construction industry is experiencing a major boom in 2023. We’re seeing dynamic growth in projects across different sports sectors—notably in college football, Major League Baseball (MLB), and soccer. More than $4 billion in sports construction projects are expected to wrap up this year in just the United States and Canada alone.

Touchdown for College Stadium Construction

It’s impossible not to notice the transformation happening in the college arena (no pun intended). In 2023, we’re matching the previous year’s record level of $1.7 billion in college stadium construction. Some big names, like Oregon State, Nebraska, and Texas A&M, are making waves with major football renovation projects and upgrades. The future of college sports is being built right here.

MLB Hits a Home Run with Upgrades

Now, let’s talk about Major League Baseball—well, technically Minor League Baseball. MLB has stepped up to the plate and mandated upgrades for minor league (MiLB) ballparks. This move is sparking considerable spending on construction of ballpark infrastructure. From new LED light systems to new playing surfaces, these investments are all about enhancing the player and fan experience.

Some of these upgrades are so transformative that it’s led to building new ballparks. As we speak, around $350 million in new ballparks are being built in places like Chattanooga and Knoxville in Tennessee, Richmond in Virginia, and Hagerstown in Maryland​.

Soccer’s Scoring Goals with New Fields & Stadiums Under Construction

Soccer isn’t taking a backseat either. The professional soccer pyramid is expanding, with over a dozen projects totaling nearly $2 billion underway. This trend kicked off in 1999 when the USL Charleston Battery and the Columbus Crew unveiled the country’s first professional soccer-only stadiums. Since then, over $7 billion has been spent on building soccer field venues specifically for major and minor league soccer teams in the U.S. and Canada.

NFL Teams Eyeing New Stadiums

Even in the realm of the National Football League (NFL), there are massive projects brewing, with several teams pondering new stadiums. For example, the Buffalo Bills and the Tennessee Titans are exploring new stadium opportunities, and the Chicago Bears are considering a move to a new suburban location, which would offer space for more than just a stadium, including commercial, retail, and housing. Speaking of which:

Beyond the Game – The Sports Venue Experience

What’s clear is that 2023 is a transformative year for sports facility construction. And these type of multi-role projects, like the one the Chicago Bears are mulling over, reflect a shift in expectations. Sports venues are about more than just the game; they’re about the experience. High-end eateries, retail outlets, and even residential spaces are all part of the construction of the modern, multi-purpose sports venue.

Looking Ahead to 2024: A Bright Future for Sports Facility Construction

When you look at the projects underway, it’s a testament to the industry’s innovative spirit. But while we’re talking about 2023 here, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about the present. There’s a future-oriented vision at play here, a commitment to growth and expansion.

Just take a look at the numbers: more than $28.5 billion in projects are scheduled to finish from 2024-27. That’s the largest backlog since tracking began back in 1998. So it’s clear the sports facility construction industry is geared up to continue evolving and shaping the future of sports, from college football to professional soccer​.

In Conclusion: A Field of Innovation, Evolution, and Growth

The industry of sports facility construction in 2023 is a dynamic landscape of innovation, evolution, and growth. With the powerful momentum in various sports sectors, coupled with forward-thinking projects, the industry is not only redefining the sports experience but is also shaping the future of sports culture. And as we move toward 2024, the sports world can look forward to even more transformative changes, as stadiums and sports facilities continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs and expectations of fans and players alike.

No matter what your favorite sports are, it’s an exciting time for the “field” of sports construction. So next time you step out onto a field, think about what’s happening right under your feet—because the state of the industry in 2023 is just the beginning of a whole new era in sports construction.

References:

1. Broughton, David. “Delayed Effect: Construction Spending Slows Again despite Surge in College and Minor League Stadium Projects.” Sports Business Journal, January 30, 2023. https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2023/01/30/In-Depth/facilities.aspx.
2. “Topic: U.S. Construction Industry.” Statista. Accessed May 19, 2023. https://www.statista.com/topics/974/construction/.
3. “Using Data Analysis to Drive Smarter Sports Facility Construction.” Sportico, May 2, 2022.
4. Phillips, Zachary. “Stadiums of Tomorrow: Franchises Across Leagues Look to Build New Homes.” Construction Dive, June 8, 2022. https://www.constructiondive.com/news/stadium-projects-map-potential-approved-built-venues/625049/.