UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (WTAJ) — Beaver Stadium's iconic press box, which has stood as a cornerstone of Penn State football history, is set to be demolished on Saturday, Jan. 4, at approximately 8 a.m.
Fans will have the rare opportunity to witness the historic event from a designated public viewing area as the stadium undergoes its first major steps in a $700 million revitalization project.
The public viewing area will be located in the Stadium West parking lot, adjacent to the Bryce Jordan Center marquee. Attendees can park in several nearby lots, including Yellow H Shields near Pegula Ice Arena, the Orange A lot at Katz Building, and the Eisenhower Parking Deck, for $1 per hour via ParkMobile or HONK. The East Parking Deck is also available at $2 for the first hour and $1 for each additional hour. Parking in the Stadium West, Jordan East, and Porter North commuter lots will not be permitted.
The morning event offers more than just a view of the demolition. A DJ will provide entertainment, and attendees can purchase coffee, hot chocolate, and breakfast items (credit card only). Fans can also sign a bleacher salvaged from the upper West side and participate in a drawing to win construction hats signed by Penn State head coaches.
Road closures will occur for safety, including Curtin Road, University Drive, and Park Avenue near the stadium. Demolition crews will hold traffic during the detonation, which is scheduled for approximately 7:55 a.m.
The press box, originally moved to Beaver Stadium in 1959 from New Beaver Field and expanded in 1980, marks the start of a six-week demolition of the upper West side, Continuous work will clear and prepare the area for new construction set to transform the fan experience and accommodate year-round events.