Rice Gateway Project
The Gateway Project includes a comprehensive renovation of Rice Stadium — the historic 75-year-old venue that has hosted everything from Super Bowl VIII in 1974 to President John F. Kennedy's iconic “We choose to go to the moon” speech in 1962. The venue will be transformed into a “stadium in a park” — a modern, community-focused complex that enhances the fan experience, prioritizes sustainability and offers greater flexibility for hosting a wide range of sports and events.
This signals a new era for Rice Athletics. The enhanced Rice Stadium will offer a best-in-class experience for our student-athletes, fans and alumni while positioning Rice to compete at the highest levels athletically and academically. It will be a place of pride for the university and for Houston.
- Tommy McClelland, vice president and director of athletics
Stadium
In a Park
Project Overview
The west side of the stadium will see a dramatic overhaul with the demolition of the existing press box, upper bowl and upper concourse to make way for a new three-level west tower. The first level will introduce a premium club with seating that extends into the lower bowl, featuring chairback seats, loge boxes and living room-style box seating designed for comfort and connection. The second level will house 14 private suites, while the third will include new spaces for media, broadcast, game operations and coaches' booths.
Other key stadium improvements include:
- On the east side, about two-thirds of the upper deck will be removed to improve sightlines and create a more intimate atmosphere.
- A 360-degree concourse will allow fans to easily experience different amenities in the stadium
- Two 4,000-square-foot restroom and concession buildings will be added at the stadium's southwest and northwest corners.
- The southwest entry plaza will reinforce the “stadium in a park” concept and connect to a landscaped walkway leading to Rice Village.
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