Penn State Athletics is moving forward with its $700 million Beaver Stadium renovation, while also setting new records in philanthropic support.
Athletic Director Pat Kraft announced in Chicago that the venue's capacity is projected to reach 109,000 during the 2026 college football season.
>>> Jennifer Garner and Daughter Violet Enjoy Lunch Outing in Los Angeles
Construction Progress and Capacity Expansion
Construction began in January 2025 and remains on schedule for full completion before the 2027 kickoff.
The expanded capacity is expected to be operational when Penn State hosts USC on October 10.
This would temporarily make Beaver Stadium the largest collegiate venue in the nation, surpassing Michigan Stadium's 107,601 capacity.
Kraft emphasized the importance of maintaining full stadium capacity throughout the project.
"It's what we forecasted out with the upper bowl being done, and so we're going to ease into it," said Kraft.
"The goal right now, we want to hit — it won't be Marshall, but USC looks like the game that they will have all the construction done."
Officials continue to evaluate additional seating opportunities within the existing footprint.
"Anywhere I can put a seat in that building, we're going to put a seat," said Kraft.
Record Donations and Revenue
Penn State generated $353.1 million in athletic donations over a four-year period, nearly doubling its previous record of $181.8 million.
The funding includes more than $135 million raised specifically for the stadium project.
A recent $5 million donation pushed the initiative over its initial target.
