Mizzou Athletics recently shared new renderings of the ongoing Memorial Stadium Centennial Project, giving fans their first real look at what Faurot Field will resemble once the $250 million renovation wraps up this fall.
The post quickly drew hundreds of comments, with reactions ranging from excitement to skepticism about the massive North End Zone overhaul.
Fans split on the new look
Many commenters praised the design, calling it a major upgrade for the stadium ahead of its 100th season.
Others were less convinced, questioning the cost relative to the number of new seats being added and wondering whether the design fits the stadium’s overall aesthetic.
Several fans also brought up the current video board, with one commenter joking that the scoreboard already felt too small and another saying they hoped the massive screen currently in place would somehow be preserved in the new build.
The North End Zone Project is the largest renovation in Faurot Field’s history, replacing the open north end with a climate-controlled, enclosed concourse.
It has been under construction since fall 2024, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for September 2, timed to coincide with the stadium’s centennial season.
Tribute calls follow worker’s death
Mixed in with the excitement, several fans used the comment section to remember Corey Sooter, a 44-year-old electrician who died in June while working on the project. One commenter suggested the university name a section of the new stadium in his honor.
According to reporting from local outlets, Sooter was injured at the stadium site on June 5 and died five days later on June 10. He worked as a foreman for BK2 Electrical and Design, the electrical contractor on the renovation project.
Columbia Fire Department records show first responders were dispatched around 9:05 a.m. and arrived at Faurot Field minutes later, where they found university medics already treating Sooter. Fire crews determined the wiring involved was still energized, and the incident was classified as an electrocution.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration opened an investigation into the death the day after it occurred and has up to six months to complete its review.
The University of Missouri released a statement saying the community was deeply saddened by Sooter’s passing and that it would fully cooperate with the OSHA investigation.
BK2 Electrical and Design also honored Sooter in a company post, describing him as a mentor and leader who was well respected by his coworkers.
He left behind a wife and four children, and a GoFundMe has been set up to support his family. His obituary noted that as an organ donor, his final act helped save five lives.
