The Buffalo Bills are getting a brand-new stadium in Orchard Park, New York, right across the street from their current home. Officially named the New Highmark Stadium, this state-of-the-art venue is designed to reflect the identity of Buffalo while embracing cutting-edge stadium technology and comfort for fans.
Construction Status (As of August 2025)
The new stadium is currently under construction, with over 50% of the work completed. According to project leaders, construction is on schedule, and the stadium is expected to open in time for the 2026 NFL season.
What’s Already Done:
- Topping-out completed in April 2025 (main steel structure finished)
- Canopy installation underway, will cover ~65% of seating
- Field groundwork laid with underground heating systems
- Snow-melt system installation in progress – the largest of its kind in the world
- Seating installation started on the east and south stands
On-Site Activity:
- ~1,500 workers on site daily
- 25,000 tons of steel installed
- Over 46,000 cubic yards of concrete poured
- Approximately 742,000 cubic yards of soil moved
Design & Unique Features
- Compact and steep bowl design brings fans closer to the field than ever before
- Acoustic structure to amplify crowd noise and enhance home-field advantage
- Fan plaza with social spaces, local food vendors, and giant video screens
- Dual LED video boards and advanced audio systems
- Heated natural turf, rainwater drainage, and snow-proof infrastructure
Funding Breakdown
- Total Project Cost: ~$2.1 billion
- Public Funding: $850 million
- New York State: $600M
- Erie County: $250M
- Private Investment: Bills owners (Terry & Kim Pegula) and NFL
- Naming Rights: Highmark BlueCross BlueShield (10+ year agreement)
Built for Buffalo Winters
With Buffalo being one of the snowiest cities in the U.S., this stadium is uniquely engineered to withstand extreme weather:
- World’s largest snow-melt system integrated into the roof and concourse
- Heated field to keep the playing surface clear and safe
- Canopy roof protects the majority of fans without the need for a fully enclosed dome
Timeline
- Groundbreaking: June 5, 2023
- Topping-out: April 2025
- Expected Completion: Summer 2026
- First NFL Season: 2026–2027
- Current Stadium: Will be in use through the 2025 season
Voices Behind the Project
“This stadium is built for real fans. It reflects the climate and culture of Buffalo more than any project we’ve ever done.”
— Populous, lead architects
“This is more than a football stadium – it’s a 30-year investment in the future of Western New York.”
— Governor Kathy Hochul
Latest Construction Images
