Work is underway to retrofit and renovate the historic building, while maintaining the architecture and character of the stadium. Preliminary work included the installation of temporary bracing around the outer wall, removal of the hazardous material and interior demolition and soil excavation.
The design features of the stadium include concrete seismic blocks at end zone where the Hayward Fault bisects the facility, and a press box that can sway in a large-scale temblor. The upgrades to the facility will include three club levels for those participating in the Endowment Seating Program, wider concourses, improved ADA access, and more restrooms and concession stands. The seating capacity of the stadium will be reduced from 71,799 seats to just over 63,000.
Renovation will also retain the historic facade, one of the signature features of Memorial Stadium, while damaged concrete will be repaired, detail work will be restored and a new finish to match the original 1923 look will be applied.
The redevelopment will bring modernised fan amenities, including wider concourses and additional restrooms and concession areas on the west side, and new wheelchair seating with better accessibility and access around the stadium. Modernised lighting system will also be installed. The flagpoles atop the stadium rim will also be renovated.
The overhaul also features the Endowment Seating Program area (approximately 3,000 seats) that will include chair-back seating and access to three club levels (Field Club, Stadium Club and University Club). Old wooden seating will be replaced with aluminum bleachers throughout the stadium and bench-back seating will be provided in donor sections outside the ESP area with additional legroom. Playing surface will be lowered approximately four feet to improve sightlines for fans seated in lower rows.
The stadium will be game-ready to host California football in September 2012, with the work slated to complete by 2013.
