Tennessee seeks suggestions for improving stadium

Tennessee officials are developing a master plan for the stadium, where the Volunteers first took the field in 1921. The plan will include improvements to restrooms, concession stands and concourse areas with costs between $50 million to $100 million during the next 20 years.

“For many Tennessee fans, Neyland Stadium is the centerpiece of Tennessee athletics,” Tennessee Athletic Director Mike Hamilton said Monday. “We want to ensure that the stadium be a viable and competitive structure and ready for its next century of service when we celebrate its 100th birthday in 2021.”

The athletic department has been criticized recently by some state legislators and season-ticket holders because of a change in ticket policy Tennessee officials said was needed to raise money for stadium renovations.

Fans with some tickets along the sidelines that were grandfathered in will have to contribute to the Volunteer Athletic Scholarship Fund to keep their tickets. They were previously exempt from giving a donation to get the privilege of buying tickets like new season-ticket holders must do.

Fans can submit their suggestions at the Tennessee athletics Web site, www.utsports.com, or at one of the Big Orange caravan stops this spring.