Chevy Chase Bank: Terps Fans Will Get Better Seats...and So Much More!

ans gathering at the university to watch the Terps take on their gridiron opponents will soon do so in an improved setting at Chevy Chase Bank Field at Byrd Stadium.

The renovation will be completed in phases with the first phase including an expansion of Tyser Tower, the addition of 64 luxury suites and 500 mezzanine level seats, a new presidential suite, new print and broadcast media areas and a new team store. Maryland's athletics department and private support, including a lead gift from Chevy Chase Bank, will cover the $50.8 million costs of Phase One of the renovation.

"Every phase of the improvements will be privately funded. There is no public money involved, there is no state funding, and there is no expectation in any way that this campus would participate in funding for any of the improvements," says Athletic Director Debbie Yow.

Other improvements include a greater number of bathrooms and concessions stands, a new team store and safety railings in the lower bowl. Also, 3,000 restricted view seats will be reclaimed by a lowering of the field. A west end zone expansion will increase seating to more than 60,000.

"There will be something for everyone in the overall expansion, in the vision for what Byrd Stadium can be," says Yow.