Media members yesterday "got a behind-the-scenes peek" at the "improvements that are under way" at Ralph Wilson Stadium, according to T.J. Pignataro of the BUFFALO NEWS. The tour was given just "hours before news broke" of Bills Owner Ralph Wilson Jr.’s death. The project was negotiated in late '12 "among team executives, Erie County and New York State, with an eye toward keeping the team in Orchard Park as long as possible, even with a change of owners after Wilson’s death." But the stadium’s age has "prompted some to question whether the renovations will be enough to keep the team in town under new ownership." The project "pales in comparison to major construction projects that have taken place" across the NFL to renovate aging stadiums. However, officials yesterday morning were "focused on the continuing construction that the team hopes will 'strengthen the fan experience.'" When the project is complete at the start of this season, fans in upper-level sections "will benefit from amenities previously reserved for those buying the most-expensive tickets." A heated “East End Lounge” will "feature Duff’s chicken wings, tables and televisions behind the eastern end zone." Five new concession stands are planned, while "all 43 stands will come with better food choices and the option to pay with a credit card." In addition, 14 new restrooms -- a nearly 30% increase -- "will be built." The Bills also will open "a swanky 8,000-square-foot" team store along Abbott Road in front of the stadium. Other projects include "upgrades to the stadium’s scoreboard," as a new "nearly 5,400-square-foot high-definition scoreboard will be installed across the western end zone." Additional scoreboards, for "in-game advertising as well as out-of-town scores and oodles more NFL statistics for fantasy football buffs, will be put up on the east end of the stadium" (BUFFALO NEWS, 3/26).
