This time next year, the iconic Carrier Dome roof will be under construction.

It's the cornerstone of a $118 million renovation project.

"The key is we'll be ready by September 2020 to host football,” said Syracuse Athletic Director John Wildhack. “From day one, that's been the priority."

Initially, the university said no sports would be impacted by the construction. But the start date is slated for early March, so officials have talked to the ACC about adjusting basketball schedules.

"We'd kind of front-load the schedule a little bit if we need to, so that the last week of the season we'll be playing on the road," said Wildhack.

Wildhack says they'd like to continue to play in New York City in future seasons, too. As for who they'll be playing, they'd like to keep old rivalries alive.

"We are in conversation with Georgetown to extend that series,” said Wildhack. “This was the last year of a four-year deal. We'd like to try to renew that for another four years, but it's got to fit with what they want to do too."

The athletic department is close to finishing an apparel deal with Nike. The contract extension could bring new looks for the Orange.

"Assuming that deal gets done, it may open the door, the opportunity to revise our uniforms,” said Wildhack. “There’s nothing to report for the 2019 season right now."

Ticket sales for next football season are strong. Wildhack says 90 percent of season ticket holders have renewed and more than 4,300 new packages have been sold.

SU fans can get their first look at the football team at the spring game next weekend.