Kansas stadium project just went next level with $300M bombshell

Rodney Knuppel

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Kansas stadium project just went next level with $300M bombshell image

In what many feel is an insane happening, the University of Kansas just scored one of the largest donations in college sports history.

David Booth, a longtime supporter and KU graduate, has pledged $300 million to the school, marking the biggest single gift ever for Jayhawk athletics.

Kansas athletic director Travis Goff confirmed that $75 million will kick off the second phase of the overhaul at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The work will focus on the east side of the venue and is scheduled to begin after the 2025 football season.

The remaining funds will be invested to generate ongoing revenue for KU athletics, a move Goff described as both “immediate impact” and “long-term transformation.”

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Phase two is expected to cost around $360 million in total and will include not just the stadium improvements, but also a new hotel, student housing, retail and dining spots, an outdoor event space, and additional parking. The city of Lawrence approved a $94 million incentive package to help push the project forward.

Booth, whose name already adorns the stadium after a $50 million gift in 2017, said his goal is to invest in KU’s future. He compared his approach to investing, noting that gifts like this build momentum over time and create opportunities well beyond the present day.

Kansas spent $450 million on the first phase of the Gateway District project, which upgraded multiple sides of the stadium and renovated the Anderson Family Football Complex. Those updates are set to be ready when the Jayhawks open their season at home against Fresno State on August 23.

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Rodney Knuppel

Rodney Knuppel is a freelance writer for The Sporting News. When not watching, listening or writing about sports, Rodney enjoys following the travels of his three kids, who are all active in their own sports and activities. A huge St. Louis Cardinals fan, Rodney also enjoys St. Louis Blues hockey and is a big Kansas Jayhawks basketball fan.