At a Board of Trustee’s meeting in May, a motion to increase the budget of the Richardson Stadium revitalization by $300,000 was approved, adding VIP seating to the construction agenda.

With the budget now at $20.57 million, four VIP boxes have been added to the plan — with two on either side of the press box.

While they were not in the final budget, Associate Vice-Principal (Facilities), John Witjes said in an email to The Journal that the VIP boxes were originally envisioned as part of the revitalization project, however, they were removed due to budget restraints.

To include this aspect in the greater stadium revitalization, Stu Lang — the lead donor on the project — gave an additional donation, allowing the University to integrate them into the official plan.

Witjes said the VIP boxes will help to attract major sporting events and concerts. 

“They are a valuable asset in a modern stadium and will enable Athletics and Recreation to host additional events that may not have been attracted to our venue without them,” Witjes said.

Currently Richardson stadium is on-track for its major opening on September 17 when the Gaels will host the Western Mustangs.