ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — It’s out with the old and in with the new as the first renderings of the soon-to-be new Buffalo Bills stadium were released Thursday.
Bills staff say there are likely only a few tweaks to be made before it becomes the real deal.
“We have unbelievable memories at Highmark [Stadium] and those should be cherished and enjoyed and celebrated," said Ron Raccuia, Bills executive vice president. "But we plan to create new ones at the new Bills stadium every bit as good as the old ones in Highmark.”
The rendering gave the public a look at the partial roof and stacked seating that’ll cover 65% of the fan base.
“It’s nice and airy and open," said Bills fan Doug Lum. "I wish there was a little more covering for the fans, but I understand the cost impact of it.”
The project has a $1.4 billion price tag, footed mostly by taxpayers. That remains a sticking point for some, but for others it's worth it.
“You get what you pay for, in most cases," Lum added. "It's big league football and only 32 cities in the world have it, so it's worth the money.”
The glass, brick, and steel exterior embraces a more modern future that might take some time to warm up to.
“We are from Texas, and we've got Jerry Jones world up there with all the big glass fancy stuff," said Bills fan Sherry Diehr. "To me, [Highmark Stadium]...like this is football, right? I mean, I'll be there, but I'm going to miss this.”
“We're hoping to have that same feel across the street," added Erik Diehr. "I think we will because it's about the fans."
That fan experience is top of mind for Bills leadership.
“Tailgating is huge," said Raccuia. "We've talked about not just maintaining it but enhancing it. We'll have a few more parking spots in the new stadium than we have in this existing stadium.”
While it’s always hard to say goodbye, fans seem ready to embrace another three decades of good times with loved ones and the Bills in Western New York.
“I proposed to my wife in front of the stadium, season ticket holders for 10 years now,” said Bills fan Reese Rogone as he held his son. "Soon enough he’ll be going with us.”
One other thing that got mentioned by almost everyone Spectrum News 1 talked to as something they loved were the three Buffalo statues right out front. Massive, statement making and a great place to take pictures to remember those memories.
The Bills plan to have the new stadium opened in time for the 2026 season.