With the NFL preseason fast approaching, USC is putting is wrapping up work on its $315-million renovation of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

The project, which began work nearly two years ago, is being designed by DLR Group.  The range of improvements includes: 

  • new seats and handrails throughout the stadium;
  • new aisles and increased leg room;
  • a new structure on the south side of the stadium to contain suites, loge boxes, club seats, a concourse, and a press box;
  • a restoration of the peristyle to more closely resemble its original design;
  • Wi-Fi throughout the stadium;
  • improved audio and video equipment, including two large screens at the east and west ends of the stadium;
  • new and improved concession stands;
  • upgraded entry concourses; and
  • new field and stadium lighting.

Built in 1923, the Coliseum is among the most storied sporting venues in American history, having played a central role in both the 1932 and 1984 Olympic Games.  At various points, the Coliseum has been home to the Los Angeles Dodgers, USC and UCLA Football, and multiple NFL teams, and come 2028, it will hold the rare distinction of hosting the Olympics for a third time.

The cost of the renovation has been covered in part by a 10-year naming rights deal struck between USC and United Airlines, in which the Coliseum's field will be referred to as "United Airlines Field at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum."  The new arrangement replaces an earlier 16-year, $69-million agreement which would have renamed the venue itself as the United Airlines Memorial Coliseum.

Despite its hefty price tag, the Coliseum's renovation is not the biggest project now taking shape in Exposition Park.  Just west across Bill Robertson Lane, the concrete and steel frame of the $1-billion Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is now taking shape.