By STEVE REED, AP Sports Writer
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers president Danny Morrison said the team plans to begin renovations on its 16-year-old stadium immediately after the 2013 NFL season and estimates the project could take two years to complete.
The master plan calls for between $261 million and $297 million in upgrades, according to Morrison.
Charlotte's City Council is backing a proposal to give the Panthers nearly $144 million from a food and beverage tax increase to pay for stadium upgrades and the team is seeking more than $60 million in state funds.
Morrison said the goal of Panthers owner Jerry Richardson has been to improve the experience for all 74,000 fans, not just those in the luxury suites.
"He gave us directions that the majority of plans need to be for 74,000 fans, not just premium seating," Morrison said. "That list we've came up with affects all 74,000 fans. We also wanted to retain our classic designed stadium in a park but also bring it to the forefront with modern technology."
The primary objectives include installing three escalators to reach the upper level, new video and ribbon boards and an improved sound system, as well as upgrading technology and stadium infrastructure and improving access to the stadium through enhanced entry gates.
Some of the other potential upgrades down the road include adding a roof terrace, a team history area, field club and an indoor practice facility.
Morrison emphasized the plan is fluid and could undergo changes along the way.
"There are some things you might end up not doing," Morrison said. "And there could be something which surfaces with technology we don't even know about."
Morrison said there are five priorities in the renovation:
•Â Installing three escalators that reach the upper level.