Fans enjoy the Jacksonville Jaguars preseason game amidst stadium renovations.
The Jacksonville Jaguars began their preseason at EverBank Stadium, experiencing various changes due to ongoing renovations. Fans faced altered entry procedures and parking challenges, but many remain optimistic about the improvements. Despite frustrations regarding escalator removals and traffic congestion, the Jaguars organization encourages fans to plan ahead and embrace the updates aimed at enhancing the game day experience for the future.
Jacksonville, FL — The Jacksonville Jaguars kicked off their preseason season with a game at EverBank Stadium, welcoming thousands of fans despite ongoing stadium renovations that have introduced notable changes to the game day experience. The renovations, initiated in February, aim to modernize the venue with expanded canopy and concourse areas, along with work on the main staircase by Gate 1. However, these upgrades have affected usual entry and access points, leading to some frustration among supporters.
Fans attending the preseason opener observed that certain escalators, specifically those by Gates 2 and 3, had been removed as part of the renovation process. Instead, fans needing assistance or wishing to access upper seating levels utilized remaining operational elevators and an escalator located near the South End Zone. Some season ticket holders noted the absence of available escalators, which resulted in the need to use alternative ramps or stairways to reach their seats.
Despite these adjustments, the Jaguars organization emphasized that the core in-bowl game experience remains unchanged. They advised fans to plan ahead, consult their tickets for specified entry gates, and be aware that routes might change during the season. Additionally, fans are encouraged to arrive early to accommodate new entry procedures.
Many attendees expressed mixed feelings about the new setup. Some, like season ticket holder Andrew Sims, expressed enthusiasm about the improved sun protection offered by new canopy structures and upgrades to the stadium’s concourses. Others noted logistical challenges, especially when navigating unfamiliar entry points or dealing with limited escalator options.
Traveling within the stadium, some fans reported using different entry zones than usual, with some entering through Zone 2 instead of West Gallagher. Nonetheless, most considered the process manageable with proper planning. One dedicated supporter humorously offered his assistance as a receiver, reflecting fan dedication despite the inconveniences.
Traffic congestion after the game presented additional complications. Fans reported significant delays exiting the stadium area, with video footage capturing long lines of cars waiting in traffic for up to an hour. Limited parking capacity in lots C, D, and J, affected by ongoing renovations, contributed to these frustrations. Fans expressed understanding of the temporary inconveniences, viewing them as part of the broader improvements planned for the venue.
Jacksonville Jaguars’ COO Chad Johnson outlined new entry and exit patterns designed to streamline security checks and improve overall flow. Fans were advised to use designated gates: general admission guests should enter through Gates 1, 2, 3, or the expanded Gate 4, while club and suite ticket holders utilize the East and West Club gates. Additional staff members have been deployed to assist fans and clarify routes amid these updates.
Hospitality areas remain open during the preparations, and fans are encouraged to consult updated parking maps and gate information on the team’s official channels to facilitate their arrival and departure processes.
The Jaguars’ preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers took place on August 9 at 7 p.m., marking the first opportunity for fans to experience the refreshed venue. The team’s regular-season home opener is scheduled for September 7 against the Carolina Panthers, with the new stadium fully operational once the renovations are complete.
The ongoing Stadium of the Future project anticipates a reduction in occupancy to 43,500 seats in 2026. The team plans to leave EverBank Stadium in 2027, with the venue reopening in Fall 2028 after comprehensive renovations. Despite current logistical challenges, fans remain supportive and optimistic about future improvements, understanding that temporary disruptions are part of necessary development processes.
In conclusion, while the early preseason games at EverBank Stadium have introduced changes to accessibility and parking, fans continue to show enthusiasm for the upcoming season and the enhancements aimed at providing a more modern and comfortable environment in the long run.
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