The Pasadena (Calif.) City Council has approved a $152 million renovation plan for the 88-year-old Rose Bowl stadium, which also includes 30-year lease extensions with UCLA and the Tournament of Roses.
"Just as our forbearers 80 to 100 years ago invested enormous sums for them to make Pasadena the city it has become in the last century, so, too, do we have a historic opportunity to reinvest and ensure that our kids and grandkids have the same amenities," council member Steve Madison said before the unanimous vote, according to a report in the Pasadena Star-News. The renovation is expected to secure the Rose Bowl's financial future, as well as preserve its historic landmark status as one of the country's oldest football stadiums.
The renovation, to be completed in three phases over three years beginning in January, will expand the press box, increase the number of premium seats from about 550 to 2,500, widen up to 12 access tunnels at the end zones, and increase the number of concessions stands and restrooms. Safety improvements are expected to reduce exit time from about 30 minutes to 17, according to the paper. The city plans to pay for the upgrade with federal stimulus funds, a bond issue, and profits from the Tournament of Roses and past Rose Bowl games.
An earlier design concept called for a $171 million renovation.
