Internet connectivity upgrades at Jones AT&T Stadium are on schedule to be in place by next football seasonGETTY IMAGES
Texas Tech AD Kirby Hocutt said that it is "necessary for the university to make changes in four areas to improve the fan experience," including safety, connectivity, tailgating and concessions, according to Karen Michael of the LUBBOCK AVALANCHE-JOURNAL. Hocutt told the school's BOR that universities nationwide are "seeing a behavior shift among fans regarding attendance." He said that more and more content can be "accessed outside of the stadiums and arenas, and it is time for Tech to 'evolve' to offer an even better experience." Hocutt said that to help fans "make calls and use the internet," AT&T is already "working to improve connectivity at Jones AT&T Stadium by enhancing the digital antenna system there." He added that it will "be in place for next year’s football season." In the short term, after the Lubbock Municipal Auditorium and Coliseum are demolished, Hocutt said that the area will be "converted to green space that could be used for tailgating." The university is "working with the city of Lubbock to expand tailgate experiences around the stadium next year." Texas Tech wants "more branded options such as Chick-fil-A and Double Dave’s Pizza." Hocutt said that the school is are "working with Spectra on 'fan-friendly pricing menu options.'" That will "include $5 popcorn and hot dogs decreasing to $2, $8.50 nachos decreasing to $2 and an unspecified decrease in the cost of drinks." Texas Tech is also "considering allowing beer and wine sales to fans in general seating areas at games." Hocutt said the sale of alcohol within athletic venues could "actually help the university to control" alcohol-related incidents (LUBBOCK AVALANCHE-JOURNAL, 12/14).
