Breaking News: The UNC Board of Governors approved a $60 million expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium, the football stadium, not the basketball arena. For the Dean E. Smith Center, UNC’s basketball arena, a study is underway to determine whether to renovate or replace it, with costs potentially reaching $80-$100 million for a new roof alone. A $217,000 study is specifically looking at options for the basketball arena……… see more…..
Chapel Hill, NC – July 5, 2025 — In a major development for University of North Carolina athletics, the UNC Board of Governors has approved a $60 million expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium, home to the university’s football team. This landmark investment is aimed at enhancing the game-day experience, increasing seating capacity, and positioning the program for long-term competitiveness in college football.
The expansion will include additional seating, improved fan amenities, and updated facilities for players, coaches, and media. It is expected to significantly boost both revenue potential and recruitment appeal. University officials emphasized that this project focuses solely on the football stadium and not the Dean E. Smith Center, which serves as the basketball arena.
Meanwhile, the future of the Dean E. Smith Center — often referred to simply as “the Dean Dome” — remains under evaluation. The university has launched a $217,000 feasibility study to explore options for the iconic basketball facility, which opened in 1986. The study, commissioned by the UNC System, will assess whether it is more feasible to renovate or entirely replace the arena.
Officials have pointed to serious infrastructure concerns with the current building. Most notably, replacing the roof alone could cost between $80 million and $100 million, according to early estimates. This staggering potential expense has pushed the university to weigh its options carefully.
“The Smith Center has been a cornerstone of Carolina basketball for decades, but we must ensure the facility meets the needs of our athletes, fans, and university moving forward,” said a spokesperson for the university. “The feasibility study will give us a clear understanding of what’s possible — and what’s practical.”
Fans, alumni, and stakeholders are closely watching the developments, given the emotional and historical importance of the Dean E. Smith Center. It has hosted legendary coaches like Dean Smith and Roy Williams, and countless unforgettable games. But with college athletics increasingly reliant on modern, revenue-generating venues, the pressure is mounting to upgrade facilities across all sports.
While the football expansion at Jerry Richardson Stadium has already secured approval, the future of the basketball arena remains uncertain. University officials stress that no decision will be made until the study is complete and all options have been carefully considered. The results of the study are expected later this year.
Both initiatives reflect a broader push by UNC to maintain its competitive edge in the ever-evolving world of collegiate athletics. The expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium aligns with growing fan engagement and the rising profile of the football program. At the same time, the looming decision over the Dean Smith Center underscores the escalating costs of keeping elite athletic programs at the top of their game.
More information on project timelines, funding sources, and public feedback opportunities is expected to be released in the coming weeks. For now, one thing is clear: UNC is making bold moves to invest in its athletic future.
