UTRGV poised to drop $33M

Regents approve spending for Vackar Stadium project

Wednesday, the University of Texas System Board of Regents gave UTRGV the green light to spend an initial $33 million to begin renovation of the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium, the future home of Vaqueros football.

UTRGV President Guy Bailey attended the meeting to advocate for the project and request authorization, referring to the expansion of Athletics as an effort to give students a “more traditional college experience.”

“The first phase is a stadium repair and expansion of the existing home and visiting locker rooms,” Bailey told the board. “We also have some [Americans with Disabilities Act] code upgrades, some seating replacement, new south end zone bleachers … press box expansion, elevators and so forth.”

Phase two of the renovations focuses on fairground improvements, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades, enhanced security systems and parking facilities, according to the meeting presentation.

Located off Highway 281, the stadium “couldn’t have a better location in terms of access but also visibility,” the university president said.

Bailey added that the surrounding area would provide ample space for tailgating.

The total cost of the project is $55 million, all of which will be covered from suite sales and season tickets, according to the president.

A unanimous vote authorized the spending of $33 million for phase one of the project.

As reported in the Oct. 7 issue of The Rider, Athletics officials hope to have the facilities ready for the inaugural football season in Fall 2025.