The Big House

Colleges & Universities University of Michigan
1

<p>As a die-hard Wolverine fan, i am curious about people’s take on the renovations planned for the Michigan Stadium. I personally am against it because:</p>

<p>a) it will destroy the integrity of the stadium
b) it will limit further expansion
c) it costs more money than a better plan that will accomplish all goals and have more tham 7000 more seats than the other.</p>

<p>If i actually either lived in A2 or went to UofM currently, i would try and start some major rallies or protests, but currently i cannot do anything.</p>

<p>Does anyone have new news/opinions? I think this could be a very interesting discussion</p>

2

<p>I don’t have an opinion either way. I think the nature of the sport requires a sexy stadium these days. It’s what the top coaches and top recruits want. I am pretty sure Michigan’s plans will allow for more growth in the future. Michigan. Of course, the growth will have to take place around the sky boxes, but therer is much room for growth.</p>

3

<p>I partially agree with what you are saying, but i think that the tradition behind such a classic stadium should be preserved</p>

<p>links for anyone interested:
<a href=“http://www.umich.edu/stadium/[/url]”>http://www.umich.edu/stadium/&lt;/a&gt;
<a href=“http://www.savethebighouse.com/index.html[/url]”>http://www.savethebighouse.com/index.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

4

<p>Matt, I don’t think the essence of the stadium will, or can, be altered. As you said, the Big House is a classic stadium, not so much because of its size or design, but rather, because of its spirit and tradition. I am pretty sure the Michigan folks involved in the project love the program and are mindful of its traditions. Those involved in the design will see to it that the essence of the stadium endures and that future projects, including expansion plans, are not limited.</p>

5

<p>a.) it won’t destroy the integrity of the stadium. It’s entirely a matter of preference. I happen to like the new stadium design. As “quaint” as the current stadium is, I can see it from my bedroom window (South Quad), and quite frankly, it’s not that impressive.</p>

<p>b.)It won’t limit further expansion. They could add another 30,000 seats, 50k behind each endzone.</p>

<p>c.)It does cost more money. (And when the administration tells you it’s “necessary” for the construction, I can assure it’s not. I’ve seen the numbers.) Nonetheless, the revenue brought in will be MUCH higher. 50 years out (long time I know, but we’re running a surplus right now anyways), the difference in profit is going to be about $200 million dollars. Think about what we can put that money towards. (How else do we fund Women’s Volleyball?)</p>

<p>d.) The stadium will be a lot louder. I’ve heard firsthand from players that they can’t hear a thing on the field. (The intensity at these games is unbelievable though.)</p>

<p>e.) Finally, great for recruiting. I’m definitely in favor.</p>

6

<p>I agree with BigE21, but I really like Matt’s love and concern for Michigan tradition. I hope Matt will grace our great university in the future. We need a few more like him around campus! Go Blue!</p>

7

<p>I think the new stadium design looks great.</p>

8

<p>I don’t know–I love the tradition of the “old” stadium, and I like that despite its size it has a relatively low profile just now. Thus, I’m concerned with how the new structure will be higher, and the impact it will have on the neighborhood just west of it.</p>

<p>On the other hand, my last gameday experience was really compromised by the long lines for everything–getting in the gates, getting to my section, getting to the bathroom–and to some extent, I feel certain improvements could not come fast enough. I’ve alse been up to the broadcasting booths and the regents boxes, and they are really marginal. So despite my concerns, I think I ultimately approve of the plans.</p>