Buffalo Bills open doors to new Highmark Stadium

The Buffalo Bills have cut the ribbon at Highmark Stadium, marking a landmark moment in the team’s 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 the event, signaling a milestone moment for the present and future of the city’s franchise.

Pegula said:

“Thank you my fellow NFL owners, who voted for this project and put us on our way. And the leadership teams of Populous who have contributed outstanding design and thought into the stadium.

“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.”

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 honouring the blue-collar spirit that defines Buffalo.

Populous is a key sponsor for the 2026 SVB LIVE Conference & Exhibition – focused on elevating the live experience across the sport & entertainment ecosystem – being hosted at Everton FC’s spectacular new Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 1st and 2nd, with an Opening Night Icebreaker at Liverpool FC’s iconic Anfield Stadium on September 30th.

Highmark Stadium also pays homage to those who contributed to the staggering workforce. When the Bills celebrated the topping off ceremony last April, the placement of the final structural steel beam, Pegula made a promise to honour construction workers when the building was complete.

He made good on that promise as the Bills this week dedicated a section of the glass entrance with a display of names of every person that contributed to Highmark. Large, bold white letters stand out on the glass that reads ‘We Built This House’ with names on to the left and right of the signage.

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. He said in a statement:

“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.”

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.

Guelli said:

“Every seat in this place is great, the facilities are incredible. 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. He added:

“[Terry] said from day one we need to build this vision, and whatever it takes, it’s going to take. 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.

Highmark Stadium Fast Facts

• Groundbreaking: June 5, 2023
• Ribbon Cutting: June 23, 2026
• First Regular Season Game: Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, vs. Detroit Lions
• Capacity: 60,108
• Playing Surface: Natural Grass
• Architect: Populous
• Owner’s rep: Legends Global
• General contractor: Gilbane | Turner
• Total Workforce: Approximately 6,000 persons
• Labor Hours: More than 5,000,000 hours

Image and source courtesy of Buffalo Bills

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