Restore "The War"
University of Wyoming War Memorial Stadium Renovations | Laramie, Wyoming
DPR Construction, formerly GE Johnson, delivered a transformative, multi-phase renovation of the University of Wyoming’s historic War Memorial Stadium—modernizing the west side of the venue while preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of Cowboy athletics. The nearly $70 million “Restore The War” project was executed across two tightly sequenced phases between November 2023 and August 2025.
Partners
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Design Team Arete Design Group
ABOUT THE Project
The scope of work included the complete demolition and reconstruction of the lower west grandstands, the installation of approximately 3,000 new chairback seats and the expansion of bleacher seating to improve comfort and sightlines. Beneath the seating bowl, the team constructed new concession areas, restrooms, circulation concourses and a team retail space, significantly enhancing the fan experience. Phase II introduced a premium club level featuring enclosed hospitality spaces, private seating, upgraded food-and-beverage service areas and a fully modernized press and broadcast facility.
Getting people where they need to go was a key focus of the renovation. New elevators and upgraded access points improved movement throughout the stadium, creating a better experience for fans, staff and media alike.
Self-Perform Concrete
The project also presented significant structural and operational challenges. Crews executed large-scale concrete placements—including a nearly 1,800-cubic-yard pour supporting the new club level—while managing extreme weather conditions typical of high-elevation Wyoming winters. The installation of precast seating systems and the integration of complex MEP systems beneath the stands required detailed sequencing and coordination among trade partners.
Harsh Winter Weather
The renovation required integrating new construction into a stadium shaped by decades of evolution. Each condition brought unique structural, spatial and coordination constraints. Mother Nature added another layer of complexity, but the team remained focused and adaptable, finding ways to safely advance construction through Wyoming's long winter months and challenging weather conditions.
Maintaining Game Day Operations
Delivering the project required careful coordination within an active Division I University. Construction was phased around seasonal constraints, with critical work completed during narrow off-season windows to ensure the stadium remained operational for home games. This required precise scheduling, logistical planning and close collaboration with university stakeholders to maintain safety, access and fan engagement throughout construction.
Our goal when we set out on the project was to enhance the overall game atmosphere on gamedays. With DPR's leadership, we more than exceeded those expectations.
Tyson Drew
University of Wyoming
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