The State Bond Commission has approved a $450 million financing plan to pay for renovations to the 44-year-old Superdome. The state will spend $90 million on the project, the Superdome Commission $210 million and the Saints will put up the rest.
“We’re 100% committed to this market, 100% committed to this state, we want to be here and that is why we are putting up $150 million,” said Saints President Dennis Lauscha.
Renovations will begin after this football season and take four years. Lauscha says the planned improvements will improve the fan experience, expanded concourses, more concession stands and replacing the ramps with escalators and elevators.
“Another issue that we’re proud of too is we’re finally going to address the ADA issues that we have, so our ADA fans can come to the game and be comfortable,” said Lauscha.
Superdome Commission Chairman Doug Thornton says these renovations are designed to improve an iconic facility.
“It generates millions and millions of dollars. In fact, our economic impact analysis suggests that it generates about $18 million a year in direct fiscal impact to the state just for what it does on an annual basis,” said Thorton.
