CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The UNC Board of Governors on Thursday approved a $60-million expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium, according to a release by UNC Charlotte.

What You Need To Know

  •  UNC Board of Governors approved a $60 million Phase I expansion of the UNC Charlotte stadium

  •  Seating capacity will increase to 18,170 fans

  •  Phase II will later increase capacity to 21,000

  • Seven luxury suites, club seats, loge boxes and ledge seats will be added

The upgrades will come in two phases, with the first phase starting right away, according to a news release.

Expansions include seven luxury suites, club seats, loge boxes for private seating and wheelchair-accessible seating, ledge seats and additional general seating, according to the university. The club level will be dual purpose, also acting as the team dining area, meeting room and conference space.

Once Phase I is finished, officials said seating capacity will allow for 18,170 fans, and Phase II is expected to increase that number to 21,000 fans. 

It currently holds 15,000, but is expandable to 40,000, according to the university's website. The stadium held its first game in 2013.

Chancellor Sharon Gabor said the move opens new doors to recruiting top-tier college athletes, and help build the local economy by attracting more fans.

“We are grateful for the private and public investments in this expansion, particularly from generous donors and the match from the NC General Assembly,” Gaber said.

The university did not say when they expect Phase 1 to be complete.

Organizers are still working on raising the necessary funds for Phase II, officials said.