Buffalo Bills open Highmark Stadium
The Buffalo Bills cut the ribbon at Highmark Stadium on Tuesday, marking a landmark moment in franchise history and the dawn of a new era for one of the NFL’s most passionate fanbases.
The opening of Highmark Stadium represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments in Western New York history, replacing the beloved predecessor across the street that served the franchise for decades.
Bills owner Terry Pegula, president of business operations Pete Guelli, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Highmark CEO David L. Holmberg and Mary Wilson took the stage for the historic ceremony, welcoming community leaders, corporate partners and construction workers to witness the occasion.
Pegula spoke for several minutes about the significance of Tuesday’s event, signaling a milestone moment for the present and future of the city’s franchise.
“Thank you my fellow NFL owners, who voted for this project and put us on our way,” Pegula said. “And the leadership teams of Populus who have contributed outstanding design and thought into the stadium.”
The state-of-the-art facility features modern amenities, premium seating options, expansive concourses, and cutting-edge technology designed to create an unmatched game day atmosphere, all while honoring the blue-collar spirit that defines Buffalo.
“Our fans, the Bills Mafia, contributed $263 million through PSL purchases, and helped us finance what we’re looking at here today. The Bills front office does not take this commitment by our fans lightly,” Pegula said.
Though he was unable to attend, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell voiced his support for the opening of Highmark Stadium. Goodell made trips to Western New York for both the ground-breaking and topping off ceremonies.
“As someone who grew up in Western New York, I could not be more excited for the official opening of Highmark Stadium. This public-private partnership is a win for one of the most passionate fan bases in the NFL and a credit to the Buffalo Bills, New York State and Erie County. This incredible stage will boost the local economy and serve as the new backdrop for a lifetime of football memories. We look forward to kicking off the first game there this September,” Goodell said in a statement.
Following the ceremony, attendees were invited inside for a first look at what fans can expect on game days. Guests explored the stadium’s sweeping concourses, made their way down to the field level, and got an exclusive peek inside the locker room.
“Every seat in this place is great, the facilities are incredible,” Guelli said. “The way it’s set up for the team is perfect. As soon as you walk in here, you’re immediately able to see the field. It’s built perfectly for Buffalo, and I’m impressed by every aspect of it.”
Guelli confirmed that the final total cost of the stadium was just over $2.1 billion and praised Pegula for his unwavering support in the process.
“[Terry] said from day one we need to build this vision, and whatever it takes, it’s going to take,” Guelli shared. “Terry’s followed through on every promise that he’s made, so it’s exciting, and the numbers are close to what we thought it would be. But the most important thing is it’s done.”
The first official football event at the new venue will be the annual Blue and Red scrimmage in August, giving fans their first taste of game day atmosphere inside the building. Guelli said he is also planning more events for season ticket holders before the regular season kicks off.