The reception to the New Highmark Stadium was overwhelmingly positive. However, some Buffalo Bills fans are frustrated with the (lack of) size of the video boards, among other complaints.
It was an intentional decision made by the organization.
The Buffalo Bills chose not to compete with other NFL organizations. They went with what works for them.
New Highmark Stadium cost $2.1 billion.
Construction of the new Highmark Stadium took three years to complete at a cost of ~$2.1 billion. Taxpayers funded $850 million, with $600 million from New York State and $250 million from Erie County. The rest was privately funded with help from the organization and from the league.
By all accounts, the Bills got it right. It took a European-style approach to the exterior, which provides additional protection from the elements from the fans while still providing the team with an advantage in cold weather. The interior features multiple premium lounges, clubs and luxury suites, modern wireless connectivity infrastructure, new locker rooms and administrative facilities, modern food-service kitchens, and multiple installations that pay homage to Buffalo fan culture. It is well done.
There were a few misses. Fans were disappointed by the obstructed views from certain seats. Some season ticket holders claimed they were lied to by their team liaison. Others were upset with the lack of video boards.
The organization heard the feedback and plans to address any potential issues before the start of the season.
“Thank you to Bills Mafia for setting a new attendance record with more than 50,000 fans at the Return of the Blue & Red. Saturday’s practice was a great opportunity to test the new stadium. We are currently addressing internal and external feedback regarding the facility’s operation following the first event. We’ll utilize the next six weeks to refine any details as we prepare for the home opener on Thursday, September 17.”
The video boards will not be part of the changes. The size is intentional.
The Buffalo Bills installed small video boards on purpose.
Many NFL and college football teams pride themselves on having the biggest video board in their respective division, conference or league. There is nothing wrong with that. To each their own.
The Buffalo Bills went in a different direction. They wanted to install the best video boards, not necessarily the biggest.
Instead of putting the focus on the screen, the Bills want the focus on the field. The video boards are there to enhance the experience, not to take away from the game being played. They are of the highest quality with state-of-the-art resolution. Here is how it was explained back in June, before the backlash:
There you have it. If you are a Bills fan who doesn’t like the size of the screens, that’s too bad. You are not there to watch the video board. You are there to watch the game!