ANN ARBOR—The University of Michigan Board of Regents today gave final approval to issue the Michigan Stadium renovation and expansion project for bids and award construction contracts, providing that bids are within the approved budget.

In November 2006, the Regents approved the schematic designs, which were developed by HNTB Architecture with the assistance of Kallmann McKinnell & Wood Architects. Construction work will be phased over a three-year period in order not to interrupt home football games. It is expected to be completed prior to the 2010 fall football season.

“I am thrilled the expansion project has made it through the third and final stage of board approval and that we can move forward,” said Athletic Director William C. Martin.

Throughout the process, Martin said, the goals of the expansion project have remained unchanged. “The project will improve the safety and overall game-day experience for all fans and provide a strong financial foundation for the competitiveness of Michigan athletics in the future.”

The renovation will address needed infrastructure upgrades related to site work, utilities, restrooms, concessions and various mechanical and electrical systems. Fans also will benefit from wider aisles, additional handrails, an increased number of entry and exit points for improved crowd circulation and safety, and additional dedicated seating for people with impaired mobility. When renovations are complete, capacity at the Big House will top 108,000.

The 400,000 square-foot additions include two multistory masonry structures on both the east and west sides of the stadium; the end zones will remain open. Approximately 83 suites and 3,200 club seats will be added. The structures, which will stand 10 feet higher than the current scoreboards at their highest point, also will direct crowd noise back onto the field, providing a greater home-field advantage.

Two smaller buildings at the north and south end zones will house additional restrooms and concessions and support functions such as first-aid, police/security and will-call.

The projected $226 million cost will be funded through private donations and Athletic Department resources, primarily revenues generated by the new seating. Earlier this week, President Mary Sue Coleman announced that Stephen M. Ross, one of the nation’s premier real estate developers, has given $5 million to the Michigan Stadium renovation and expansion project. The stadium gift is part of The Michigan Difference, the University’s $2.5 billion fund-raising campaign.

“Through the visionary planning of our Athletic Department and the generosity of our donors, the University will be able to offer fans a college football experience unlike any other in the country,” Coleman said.

Once the costs of the renovation are recovered, revenue from the new seating will be available over the long run to support facilities upgrades and other costs of 25 men’s and women’s varsity sports.

Regular updates and new information on the Stadium