The University of Oklahoma has scaled down an ambitious renovation of Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium by almost $200 million.
Regents approved an amended design that will cost $160 million, down from the original plan calling for about $360 million in improvements. The new plan will add seats to complete a bowl by connecting the south end zone section to the rest of the stadium. The school will also still add a new weight room, fitness facility and coaches offices.
"(The new plan) will focus on our priorities and it is appropriately scaled to reflect the uncertainty of economic conditions caused by low oil and gas prices," school president David Boren said.
Boren added that $43 million for the project has been accounted for and the remainder will be funded with $117 million of bond money.
Originally, the school had released plans to remodel its press box, renovate the west side of the stadium and add numerous suites, while also improving fan amenities such as better seating, concession stands and restrooms.
Boren said he expects the school to revisit a potential second phase down the line.