By WRAL staff

The Charlotte City Council on Monday approved plans for renovations to Bank of America Stadium, home to the Carolina Panthers.

The team first announced its renovation plans for the stadium earlier in June.

Charlotte City Council voted 7-3 to approve the measure.

“Today’s vote by the Charlotte City Council is the culmination of many thoughtful discussions with city officials, local leaders, and our fans to create a shared vision for Bank of America Stadium,” Panthers owner David Tepper said in a statement. “ Nicole and I are grateful for the collaboration and support of the project, as well as our ongoing partnership between Tepper Sports & Entertainment and the city.”

$650 million will be paid by taxpayers, while Tepper will contribute an additional $688 million, including $117 million that was invested prior to June 2024 and an estimated $571 million. With the approval the Panthers are required to stay in Charlotte for at least 20 years.

According to the Panthers’ website, the team states that the city’s approximate $650 million investment does not require any new or increased taxes. It will be funded by existing hospitality and tourism tax resources, which are legally required by the state to be spent on projects to support the city’s tourism economy. The restricted funds cannot be used for other city functions like transit, education, affordable housing or public safety.

Highlights of the renovation include:

• Brand-new seats installed throughout the bowl.
• Improved accessibility throughout the facility, designed and constructed in a way that allows individuals with a range of disabilities to have access without barriers.
• Stadium safety and security enhancements, including illuminated wayfinding and improved lighting.
• A reimagined South Lawn Pavilion area that can be used as a community gathering spot and outdoor classroom on game days and non-event days.
• Upgraded restrooms throughout the stadium for better sustainability, accessibility and speed of service.
• Enhancements to the stadium exterior to reaffirm its place as an iconic, beloved fixture of the Charlotte skyline.
• A reduction of the impact on the environment and demand on city infrastructure through the modernization of the building systems, including mechanical, plumbing, electrical and HVAC.

The proposed renovations for practice facilities come about two years after the Panthers tried but failed to build a facility in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

“For nearly 30 years, Charlotte has been the home of the Carolina Panthers and, more recently, Charlotte FC,” Tepper said. “We are proud to be in the Carolinas and look forward to delivering a venue that meets the needs of our community, players, and fans for years to come.”

It comes as city leaders try to sift through the Panthers’ plans to renovate their practice facility near Bank of America Stadium.

Bank of America Stadium has hosted the Panthers since 1996 and Charlotte FC since 2022.

Source: wralsportsfan.com