South Carolina Unveils Williams-Brice Stadium Renovation Plans: 5 Key Takeaways
After years of speculation about what upgrades might come to Williams-Brice Stadium, Gamecock fans finally got a clearer picture on Wednesday.
Just one day after securing final approval from the state budget office, South Carolina revealed fresh renderings and details of the upcoming renovations to its football home. Here’s what you need to know:
1. No Seat Relocation Until 2027
A major focus of the renovation is expanding premium seating. Williams-Brice currently has just 18 suites — the fewest in the SEC — but that number will grow to 43, including 10 ultra-luxury Founders Suites.
Those additions, however, require removing thousands of existing seats, which means many season-ticket holders will eventually have to move. The upside? Fans won’t feel that impact until the 2027 season.
“When construction begins following this football season, crews are going to be ‘working on the guts of the stadium, to be able to prep it for the following year,’” said athletic director Ray Tanner’s chief of staff, Justin Donati. “And they will somehow do that while keeping all the seats intact through the 2026 season.”
2. A New Space Just for Students
The renovation isn’t only geared toward donors. Students are also getting a major upgrade.
The Floyd Building — located beneath the north scoreboard and once home to football offices — will be torn down. In its place, the school plans to build a 3,000-square-foot, air-conditioned student club and a new 100-level concourse that improves traffic flow around the stadium.
According to Donati, the new student space will also serve as a year-round venue: “It will be available for student organizations to use throughout the year.”
3. More Bathrooms and Concessions
One of the biggest issues for fans? Long lines. Williams-Brice has long lagged behind in restroom availability.
“One of the worst — possibly in the country — in regards to women’s restrooms,” Donati admitted. “So we’re gonna solve for that.”
The project includes building more restrooms and expanding concessions. Among the changes will be at least two “Marketplace Grab-n-Go” spots, designed to help fans quickly pick up drinks and snacks without missing much game action.
4. Upgrades for Football Facilities
Beyond fan experience, South Carolina is also focused on improving areas for players and coaches.
The project includes a new recruiting lounge, renovated home locker room, new media interview space, upgraded training and equipment rooms, plus locker rooms for both male and female staff members.
“Those areas need a refresh,” Donati said. “That’s a big focal point of this project — to make sure we address their needs and make sure that not only our current team, but our future Gamecocks, that’s a space they’re really proud of.”
5. Hosting More Concerts and Events
One renovation detail is aimed at more than football. South Carolina is shifting the visiting locker room to the southeast corner of the stadium, opening space for a new field-access ramp.
The ramp will allow 18-wheelers to drive directly onto the field — the type of trucks needed to haul in massive concert stages and event equipment.
“The access to the field is critical,” Donati explained. “Solving for that will help open the eyes to promoters. … But, also, the premium spaces that we will develop (will be attractive).”
With these updates, South Carolina hopes Williams-Brice Stadium won’t just be the home of Gamecock football, but also a premier destination for major events across the region.
