The Cleveland Browns are on track to move into their $2.6 billion domed stadium by the 2029 season. Adding to the excitement, newly released renderings showcase a distinctive seating layout.

Images released by the fandom show that the Browns' new dome stadium will be built about 80 feet below ground level to comply with aviation regulations, as the stadium is just adjacent to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

What this means is that 70% of the seating will be below the ground level, according to 92.3 The Fan's Daryl Ruiter.

According to designers at HKS, the stadium's designer, the excavation will cost around $65 million and is expected to reduce the stadium's heating and cooling energy usage by 20%.

“There is a cost to put things in the ground, so we’ve actually moved their operations and services to grade,” said Josh Tooill, HKS senior designer and principal. “Everything you would traditionally have at event level — really, the back-of-house is for the team, home and away locker rooms, anything performance related, and premium space. If it’s not in those categories, it’s done on-grade.”

Tooill believes the design creates an event level dedicated to players, performers, and fans.

The team also incorporated fan feedback by adding two unique field-level premium areas that transform what is usually an obstructed view into a premium experience.

As noted by ESPN, the state of Ohio is funding roughly $600 million of the project, while Haslam Sports Group will cover any cost overruns. While the stadium is being constructed in full swing, the franchise moves one step closer to final approval.

Cleveland Browns’ stadium dream moves one step closer

The Browns moved one step closer to their Brook Park stadium after the Ohio City Council unanimously approved key legislation for setting up the Brook Park New Community Authority.

However, Cleveland.com notes that one final vote is expected to take place on July 15 following a public hearing on tax funding.

Mayor Edward Orcutt said in a recent interview with Cleveland.com that key details about the tax implications and stadium maintenance costs will be made public in the future.

“We’re not going to negotiate in public, but I have been working with the City Council in executive session. We’ve set the parameter. I think I’m a good negotiator in taking care of the city’s tax dollars. Those are sacred tax dollars,” said the Mayor.

The Haslam Sports Group has committed $1.755 billion in private financing and begun construction; final council approval is imminent.

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Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote