Illinois Field to undergo $5M facelift, with new seating, dugouts

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - The University of Illinois announced its baseball field is set to undergo a $5 million renovation thanks to an anonymous donor.

Illinois Field innovations will include additional seating along the first and third baselines, new and expanded dugouts, and permanent seatbacks.

According to Illinois Athletics, the new dugouts will have more storage space, technology upgrades and bathrooms.

"The renovations will significantly improve the fan and player experiences while also enhancing home crowd comfort. We have been extremely blessed to have a donor step up to help us to continue to advance Illinois baseball," said Illinois baseball head coach Dan Hartleb in a press release.

The renovations are expected to be completed in spring 2027.

Since opening in 1988, Illinois Field has undergone several changes, most recently with the addition of the Atkins Baseball Training Center next door to the stadium in 2023.

More information on the facility is available online.