Gravel2Gavel Construction & Real Estate Law Blog
On January 29, 2014, The Observer, a student-run, daily print and online newspaper serving Notre Dame and St. Mary’s, reported that Notre Dame “is hoping to begin massive construction of Notre Dame Stadium after the conclusion of the 2014 football season,” after interviewing University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. It confirmed that the “Notre Dame Board of Trustees has endorsed a plan to build three buildings totaling 750,000 square feet that will surround the Stadium.” The “Campus Crossroads Project” is expected to cost $400 millions, and to take 33 months to construct from start to finish. President Jenkins confirmed that, ideally, the University would make the decision to go ahead with the project in August and start building after Notre Dame’s home finale against Louisville in November.
President Jenkins, however, reportedly confirmed that Notre Dame still needs to raise funds for the project. Evidently, the University’s policy is to have 100% of the funding promised and 50% in hand before construction begins. Notre Dame is looking for benefactors who will support the Campus Crossroads Project and expects the rest of the funding to come from various sources, including revenue from premium seating tickets — 3,000 to 4,000 additional club seats.
Paul Browne, a spokesperson for the University, reportedly confirmed that the University expects to employ all construction trades locally, but it could also contract with some Chicago-area companies to help with construction. President Jenkins reportedly confirmed that Notre Dame expects to look first towards South Bend for construction companies, providing job opportunities to the local community.
Erin Hoffmann Harding, Vice President of Student Affairs, reportedly confirmed that Notre Dame has worked with architectural firms like 360 Architects, Slam and Workshop Architects so far on the project.
Additional Resources: ESPN; ABC News; USA Today; Chicago Tribune; South Bend Tribune; bleacher report