Detroit Lions Owner Sheila Ford Hamp Announces $3.5 Billion Ford Field Stadium Renovation That Will Redefine NFL Fan Experience
In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the NFL world, Detroit Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp has unveiled an ambitious $3.5 billion renovation plan for Ford Field. In a press conference filled with excitement, optimism, and bold vision, Ford Hamp detailed a transformative project that aims to redefine not just the Lions’ home stadium, but the entire professional football fan experience.
The extensive renovation, set to begin following the 2025 NFL season and be completed in phases through 2029, is being hailed as one of the most aggressive and innovative stadium overhauls in league history. Ford Field, which originally opened in 2002, will soon feature state-of-the-art technology, luxury amenities, sustainability initiatives, and expanded capacity — all designed to position Detroit as a premier destination for major sporting events, including future Super Bowls, Final Fours, and more.
A Vision Beyond Football
Sheila Ford Hamp began her remarks with a firm declaration: “This is about much more than football.”
With Detroit undergoing a well-publicized urban renaissance, the Lions’ ownership believes Ford Field must play a central role in the city’s ongoing revitalization. Ford Hamp emphasized the project’s goal of creating a “year-round global sports and entertainment hub” that can seamlessly host NFL games, international soccer matches, concerts, esports tournaments, conventions, and more.
“Ford Field has been our fortress for two decades. Now it’s time to make it a beacon — not just for the Lions, but for all of Detroit, all of Michigan, and fans around the world,” she said.
Key Features of the Renovation
The Ford Field renovation plan, internally dubbed “Project Pride,” includes a staggering array of enhancements:
1. Expanded Seating Capacity
Ford Field’s current capacity of approximately 65,000 will rise to 72,500. This expansion will primarily occur through the addition of a new upper-deck seating ring in the east end zone, optimized for both football and multi-sport configurations.
Notably, the design will retain the stadium’s signature intimate feel — a key element that players and fans say contributes to its thunderous home-field advantage.
2. Skybridge Suites and Rooftop Terraces
One of the most exciting additions will be the construction of two glass-enclosed skybridges connecting the stadium’s sides above the field, featuring premium “Skybridge Suites.”
Guests in these suites will enjoy 360-degree views of the game below, an exclusive dining experience curated by Michelin-starred chefs, and access to rooftop terraces offering stunning views of downtown Detroit.
3. Massive New Video Boards
Taking inspiration from recent stadium marvels like SoFi Stadium and AT&T Stadium, Ford Field will introduce a halo-style 360-degree video board suspended over midfield. The “Pride Ring,” as it’s tentatively being called, will be one of the largest and most advanced video displays in the world, featuring 8K resolution and augmented-reality capabilities.
In addition, four new corner video boards will be installed to ensure that fans in every section have an immersive visual experience.
4. Cutting-Edge Technology
Ford Field will be fully outfitted with 5G Ultra Wideband, allowing fans to stream, share, and interact without lag. Augmented reality (AR) apps will provide live player tracking, instant stat updates, and fantasy football integration during games.
Fans entering the stadium will experience facial recognition ticket scanning, AI-powered concessions for faster transactions, and an interactive Lions Hall of Fame featuring holographic exhibits.
5. Green Energy Transformation
Ford Hamp announced that sustainability will be central to the renovation. Ford Field is set to become the first carbon-neutral NFL stadium by 2030.
Plans include the installation of solar panel roofing, rainwater harvesting systems, on-site composting, and an electric vehicle fleet for team and stadium operations. Partnerships with Ford Motor Company and local environmental groups will ensure that green initiatives are embedded into every phase of construction and operation.
6. Enhanced Fan Amenities
Fans will benefit from widened concourses, more restrooms, upgraded Wi-Fi, a revamped team store, and a new range of local and international food vendors curated by celebrity chefs and Detroit culinary icons.
In addition, there will be multiple new fan zones, including:
- A “Lions Legacy Plaza” celebrating the team’s history
- A “Family Fun Zone” with interactive games for kids
- A “Pride Den” — a nightclub-style venue that opens postgame for fans aged 21+
7. Luxury and Inclusivity
A significant focus is being placed on improving the stadium experience for all.
More than 300 new premium suites and 4,000 club-level seats will be constructed, featuring private entrances, concierge services, and VIP amenities.
At the same time, Ford Field will expand its accessible seating areas, offer sensory-friendly rooms, and install more ADA-compliant features, ensuring that fans of all abilities feel welcome.
Funding the Dream
The $3.5 billion price tag will be funded through a combination of private financing, team investment, NFL G-4 stadium funds, and minimal public funding sources.
Ford Hamp stressed that no new general taxes would be levied on Detroit residents, a crucial promise in a city that has faced economic hardship in past decades.
“The Lions are proud to invest in our city and in our fans,” she said. “This project is about ownership, leadership, and stewardship. We’re building something special — and we’re doing it the right way.”
Timeline for Completion
The renovation will roll out in phases, carefully planned to allow the Lions to continue playing at Ford Field without interruption:
- 2025–26 offseason: Initial construction on expanded concourses and technology upgrades
- 2026–27 offseason: Installation of rooftop terraces, solar panels, and new suites
- 2027–28 offseason: Skybridge Suites and Halo Board construction
- 2028–29 offseason: Final seating expansions and green energy transformation
The project is expected to be fully completed by July 2029, just in time for Detroit to make a major push to host Super Bowl LXIX (69).
League-Wide Impact
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, appearing via live video during the announcement, praised the project:
“Detroit has always been a cornerstone of the National Football League. With this renovation, Ford Field will set a new standard for excellence. We fully support Sheila and the Lions’ vision and can’t wait to see this new era come to life.”
Several NFL owners have also reportedly expressed interest in adopting similar features — especially the focus on green energy and technology integration.
Players React
Star quarterback Jared Goff said he was thrilled with the plans:
“You can tell the Fords are all-in. Everything they’re doing shows they believe in us, believe in this city, and want to bring championships to Detroit. I can’t wait to run out onto that field with the whole stadium buzzing like never before.”
Pro Bowl defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was similarly excited:
“Detroit deserves the best. We have the best fans, and now we’re going to have the best stadium, too.”
Economic Boost for Detroit
Beyond football, the Ford Field renovation is expected to generate over 10,000 construction jobs and create permanent new positions within stadium operations, hospitality, and entertainment.
City leaders predict that the enhanced stadium will drive hundreds of millions of dollars in tourism and hospitality revenue annually — a crucial boost for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses across downtown Detroit.
Mayor Mike Duggan called it a “transformational moment” for the city, adding:
“We are proud to partner with the Lions on this incredible journey. Together, we’re building a Detroit that shines on the world stage.”
A New Era Dawns
For a franchise that has long been considered underdogs, the Ford Field renovation symbolizes more than just new seating, flashy scoreboards, or corporate suites. It represents a new mentality — one where Detroit no longer looks back with regret, but forward with unstoppable pride.
With a playoff-contending roster, a beloved head coach in Dan Campbell, and now, a soon-to-be world-class stadium, the Detroit Lions are writing a bold new chapter in their history.
And at the heart of it all stands Sheila Ford Hamp, a leader determined to leave a legacy as powerful as the roar of the Lions themselves.