A major phase in the JMA Wireless Dome renovation project is completed just in time as the Syracuse football season kicks off. 

All aluminum bench seats have been replaced with new seats that have seatbacks and several modifications have been made to stairs and railings inside the dome, fitting in line with ADA compliance. 

This completes phase two of a multi-phase project costing over $200 million. 

Officials say these improvements will help with recruiting and the overall fan experience. 

"Unless a college team plays in an NFL venue, there is not another venue where 100% of the seats are chairbacks unless they play in an NFL Stadium," Syracuse University Director of Athletics John Wildhack said. "That is how good this place is."

Some highlights on Syracuse's schedule, outside of the season opener include next week where SU Athletics will retire Dwight Freeney's number 54. That ceremony honoring the greatest pass rusher in Syracuse history and recent Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee will take place at halftime of the Orange's game against Georgia Tech at the Dome on Sept. 7. 

Former Syracuse football Head Coach Dick MacPherson will also become the ninth inductee into the Orange Ring of Honor. The longtime SU coach and community leader died in 2017.  That ceremony will take place during the Orange's game on Nov. 23 against UConn.

The food pantry at Hendricks Chapel will also be dedicated to Coach MacPherson.