The Dallas Parkand Recreation Department and Fair Park First have launched the beginning of a two-year, $140-million renovation project to modernize the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium at Fair Park. This is the most comprehensive renovation of the legendary stadium and part of the largest financial investment in Fair Park during the 137-year history of the fairgrounds.
“I am proud of our city for committing $140 million to support long overdue renovations that will dramatically enhance the experience for fans and visitors. Fair Park and the Cotton Bowl Stadium helped put Dallas on the map and bring millions of visitors to our city every year. That’s why investing in Fair Park is so important. An investment in Fair Park is an investment in Dallas,” said Mayor Eric Johnson. “This renovation of the Cotton Bowl Stadium is a monumental project for Dallas. As a lifelong fan of college football, this stadium has always been special to me. It serves as the cornerstone of Fair Park, which is a crucial piece of our plan to revitalize parks and green spaces across Dallas,” said Mayor Eric Johnson.
The mayor, other city and state leaders, Overland Partners, OVG360, State Fair of Texas, JE Dunn Construction, and Rise360 recently participated in a groundbreaking to kick off the revitalization project.
Improvements designed to increase fans’ comfort level while traversing the stadium include adding 14 new escalators to boost circulation and constructing new multi-story entries at the two west entry gates. Enhancements to the west side of the stadium include widening the upper concourse to triple the current square footage, creating two outdoor terraces with views of downtown Dallas, and doubling the size of the main concourse featuring new art deco artwork to augment the classic style of the stadium.
Elevating the speed of service for fans proves a project priority with an increased number of concessions and restrooms throughout the venue. Additional upgrades improving the fan experience include increasing the number of hospitality areas and premium seating environments highlighted by a new club in the West Tower with multiple types of suite and seating options.
The historic Cotton Bowl Stadium facade will be preserved and enhanced during the restoration project with lights being added, further showcasing the venue’s iconic entrance. Other notable improvements include boosting the in-stadium Wi-Fi signal, new and updated signage, plus the expansion and upgrading of the press area in the south end zone.
Spotlighting the partnership between Dallas Park and Recreation and Fair Park First, the project preserves the legacy and heritage of the landmark stadium, while establishing its future as the incomparable outdoor venue in Texas.
“Dallas Park and Recreation Board and Fair Park First have launched an incredibly exciting and ambitious plan to renovate and restore historic Fair Park. These pioneering renovations certainly ensure a world class stadium for Dallas,” said Arun Agarwal, president of the Dallas Park and Recreation Board. “Our park system and Fair Park are destined for great things, thanks to the support of our city leadership and the community.”
Known for attracting top names in entertainment and hosting world-class events for almost a century, Cotton Bowl Stadium will undergo transformative enhancements while celebrating its legacy and distinctive architecture. The sweeping improvements to the visitor experience and modernizations will ensure all fans enjoy an elevated experience for decades.
“With these improvements the Cotton Bowl stadium is primmed to become one of the premier open-air stadiums in the nation, with a fan experience that matches the venues remarkable history,” said Brian Luallen, Fair Park First Chief Executive Officer. “It’s a catalytic investment for Fair Park that will offer greater returns for the City of Dallas and attract more amazing events than ever before."
Visit Dallas and the Dallas Sports Commission project improvements to the Cotton Bowl Stadium will attract future large-scale concerts and sporting events, driving significant economic impact for the City of Dallas.
“Overland Partners is proud to collaborate with this exceptional group of visionaries as we create a foundation for Fair Park to flourish in the future,” said Bryan Trubey, FAIA, Project Principal,
Overland Partners. “The Cotton Bowl renovation draws on Overland’s distinctive knowledge of civic and cultural endeavors, sports and entertainment sites, and guest experiences to re-envision one of Dallas’ - and the country’s - most iconic venues.”
The renovations enable existing events to continue, while sparking sustainable development of new opportunities across Fair Park’s diverse venues in the future. Bolstered by strong support from civic leaders and Dallas voters, the vision of transforming Fair Park into the pre-eminent outdoor cultural, entertainment, and sports destination in Dallas is coming to fruition as renovations commence.
“The Brimer Bill has really expanded what is possible for Fair Park and the Cotton Bowl Stadium. I've waited a while for this day, and I'm overjoyed to see the hard work we put into getting this bill passed put into action” said Dallas City Councilman Adam Bazaldua, who represents the Fair Park communities. “The Cotton Bowl is such an iconic staple of Dallas, and as a continuous advocate of investing in existing resources, I can't wait to see new life breathed into this beautiful stadium and the opportunities it will bring to South Dallas.”
The two-year restoration will be conducted in two phases, allowing the stadium to host annual events without interruption during the 2024 State Fair of Texas. The project will be funded with proceeds from the 2022 Proposition A referendum and additional sources. Other priority projects for Fair Park include the Music Hall, The African American Museum, and a privately funded community park. The Cotton Bowl stadium renovations are scheduled to be completed by the start of the 2025 State Fair of Texas.