IOWA CITY, Iowa — The University of Iowa Athletics Department plans to renovate Duane Banks Field, the home of the University of Iowa baseball team, pending approval by the Board of Regents, State of Iowa, next week.
The planned $27.4 million renovations to the existing space — funded by athletic department gifts and revenue — are expected to significantly improve the game day experience by increasing stadium capacity, improving ADA access and seating, and enhancing the fan experience with premium seating opportunities, additional concessions and restrooms. The upgrades also will include a renovated entrance to the stadium.
“This is monumental for our program, getting this opportunity to completey renovate Duane Banks Field,” said head coach Rick Heller. “These upgrades will give our program, not only one of the best facilities in the Big Ten, but in the country. I would like to thank all of our donors who have made this possible and those that continue to support us throughout the process.”
For additional information on the baseball stadium campaign, including the opportunity for fans to put their name on a seatback, visit hawkeyesports.com/revitalize-duane-banks-field.
The Hawkeyes have advanced to the postseason in each of the last seven seasons under head coach Rick Heller. Iowa has averaged 32 wins per year under Heller’s watch, appearing in three NCAA Regionals and claiming the first Big Ten Tournament title in program history. Since 2015, Iowa is 143-43 in games played at Duane Banks Field.
“Coach Heller has built a culture of sustainable success that the baseball program has never before experienced,” says Beth Goetz, Interim Henry B. and Patricia B. Tippie Director of Athletics Chair. “These renovations will align with the championship level of performance we’ve seen inside the stadium. We are thankful to the many donors who have already supported this project and allowed us to move forward. ”
The university has committed to investing in Duane Banks Field since its inception in 1974. In 2002, former Hawkeye and former major leaguer Cal Eldred donated $245,000 to fund the installation of lights. From 2014-15, the field surface was replaced by AstroTurf and a state-of-the-art videoboard was installed.
Pending approval, the renovations would begin after the 2024 collegiate baseball season.
