UPDATE: Construction of the new Buffalo Bills stadium in Orchard Park, NY, has hit the critical 75% completion mark, signaling significant progress as the team aims for a mid-2026 opening. State officials confirmed today that despite earlier delays, the project remains firmly on track.
During a press briefing, Steve Ranalli, president of the Erie County Stadium Corporation, announced that the board has approved a crucial land transfer to New York State, paving the way for the demolition of the existing Highmark Stadium after the Bills’ season concludes in late January 2024.
The construction crew is working around the clock, with 1,500 to 1,600 workers on-site daily, pushing to stay ahead of winter weather conditions. Ranalli noted, “They have made up significant ground through extended shifts and additional labor.”
With the stadium’s exterior façade nearing completion, crews are installing exterior gates and advancing on interior mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work. Ranalli expects substantial completion by June or July 2024.
In a significant update, the Bills have acquired an 8.16-acre parcel known as the “Barco lot,” which will integrate into the land transfer, maintaining its role as a parking area for team operations.
“There are delays on every project of this scale,” Ranalli stated. “I expect they’ll get there.”
The demolition of the current Highmark Stadium is set to begin after the Bills’ season, with the demolition contract awarded to ARC Building Partners. The expected cost for this demolition will range between $30 million and $35 million, funded entirely by the Bills.
As of now, the overall project cost has ballooned from an initial estimate of $1.54 billion to between $2.1 billion and $2.2 billion. By year-end, the Bills are projected to have invested $1.6 billion into the new stadium, which includes $600 million from New York State and $250 million from Erie County.
In addition to construction updates, the Erie County Stadium Corporation has approved the addition of approximately 1,600 square feet of exterior market space. This development aims to enhance the fan experience by providing food and beverage options inside the stadium gates.
Looking ahead, Ranalli assured reporters that crews are better prepared to handle winter conditions compared to previous years, allowing for uninterrupted progress on interior work. When asked about the highly anticipated bison sculptures, he cryptically replied, “Even if I knew — which I don’t — I’m not sure I could reveal that.”
Stay tuned for more updates as the new Buffalo Bills stadium project continues to unfold, impacting fans and the local community alike.
