University of Northern Iowa Shows Off UNI Dome Renovations

The UNI Dome in Cedar Falls opened in 1976. Since then, it has seen countless college and high school football games, graduation ceremonies, concerts, and more. To say that the dome needed an upgrade would be an understatement! The University of Northern Iowa showed off phase one of a $50 million project to get the UNI Dome up to date!

What Is New at the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls?

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that phase 2.1 renovations include a new team room at $18.2 million, the new $8 million Teflon roof, and expanded seats and new suites. The Gazette reports that the seating and suite renovations upgraded more than 90,000 square feet of the dome. There are now widened seats and aisles, new party decks, and expanded suites, which should mean more revenue for UNI athletics.

The Gazette reports that because of the wider seats and aisles, the UNI Dome seating capacity will shrink from 16,000 to 12,000. The project did bring the dome up to date on ADA standards.

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What Renovations are Planned for the UNI Dome Next?

Phase 2.2 will update more than 5,400 square feet of public restrooms, concourse terraces, and new signage, according to the Gazette. Construction on that phase should be completed by July 2026.

A timeline for phases 3 and 4 has not been set and is still "pending funding," according to the Gazette. Officials hope that a new indoor track, an improved sound system, and new lighting will be included.

The UNI football team played its first game in the newly renovated UNI Dome on August 30th, with a win over Butler.