Voted one of the most scenic stadiums in college football each year, Husky Stadium is home to the University of Washington football program. The stadium was constructed in 1920 and opened on November 27, 1920, with an original seating capacity of 30,000. Over the past century, Husky Stadium has undergone numerous renovations and expansions.
Between 1936 and 1950, 25,000 seats were added to Husky Stadium at a cost of more than $1.7 million. The project also included a two story press box and a roof covering part of the grandstand. In 1968, an additional 3,000 seats were added. That same year, the natural grass playing field was removed and replaced with Astroturf, making the Huskies the first collegiate football team to play on an Astroturf field. In 1987, a $13 million renovation project was completed that increased the seating capacity to 72,500. In 1990, a new eight lane synthetic surface track was installed. Prior to the start of the 2000 season, the Astroturf was replaced with FieldTurf.
In December 2006, the University of Washington unveiled plans for a major renovation of Husky Stadium. The $280 million project began after the 2011 season and included the demolition of nearly the entire stadium, with the exception of the upper deck on the north side. A new lower deck was constructed in a horseshoe configuration around the field, while a new upper deck was built on the south side of the stadium. New bleachers were also constructed on the east side.
The renovation included a new press box, additional luxury suites, the removal of the track and the lowering of the playing field by four feet. A new 31 foot high by 108 foot wide HD video scoreboard was also installed. Husky Stadium was closed during the 2012 season while the Huskies played their home games at CenturyLink Field, the home of the Seattle Seahawks. The Huskies returned to their renovated home in August 2013, with the stadium’s seating capacity reduced to just over 72,000.
One of the most impressive features of Husky Stadium is its setting. Fans attending football games are treated to spectacular views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Union Bay on Lake Washington. With its picturesque surroundings and dramatic setting overlooking the water, Husky Stadium remains one of the most scenic venues in college football.
