Graz stadium expansion: 150 million euros for the future of football!
Graz stadium expansion: 150 million euros for the future of football!
Graz, Österreich - The plans for the expansion of the Graz Merkur Arena accept concrete forms. According to a feasibility study, which has been developed by the city of Graz in recent months, the costs amount to around 150 million euros. This development could make Graz one of the hotspots for national and international football events, after all, the concept provides for a capacity of 20,000 seats that could even be increased to around 25,000 visitors depending on modular standing and seating. Puls24 reports that the city of Graz has already made 30 million euros available, while the state of Styria has already signaled financially.
The feasibility study was decided in the municipal council in October of the previous year and has now been presented at the end of May 2025, including the governor and his deputy. A comprehensive upgrading of the arena is planned, which includes a lowering of the lawn and a renewal of the entire roof structure, including a 4,000 square meter photovoltaic system. So that not enough, adjacent plots must also be bought in order to meet the space.
challenges and efforts
As usual with such large projects, those responsible face challenges that should not be underestimated. Noise loads and traffic questions have to be taken into account. A comprehensive concept of measures for mobility and traffic has already been developed. Mayor and Vice Mayor emphasize that joint efforts are necessary for the financing to advance the project.
In addition, the President of SK Puntigam Sturm Graz, Christian Jauk, emphasized in an interview that the planned expansion of Merkur Arena should be greater than similar projects in Linz. Despite the change in the coaching team, Jauk sees the club in a stable sporting situation and is now relating to a future -oriented infrastructure. The construction for the Champions League suitability is essential, since a corresponding capacity is also sought for international matches. Jauk also criticizes the slow approval processes that often hinder progress and hopes for political support in the coming years. Ligaportala sustainable approach
A future -oriented expansion also means involving ecological aspects in the planning. The Institute for Local Sports Development explains that when creating new sports facilities and exercise areas, ecological, social and urban planning requirements must be taken into account. This is done by tailor -made solutions that meet the specific needs of the municipalities in order to create sustainable movement offers for citizens. [Inspo] (https://www.inSPO-Sport development planning.com/machlibility studies-und-realization concepts/)
It remains to be hoped that the first groundbreaking ceremony will soon be set in Graz with these knowledge -rich and ambitious plans to make Merkur Arena a modern home for football fans.
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| Ort | Graz, Österreich |
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