Seattle Memorial Stadium final project plans approved, public goodbye planned

The Seattle School Board and Seattle City Council have approved final transaction documents, clearing the way for construction to begin on a new Memorial Stadium at Seattle Center this summer.

The final language pertained to funding, construction and operation of the new $140 million project on the campus’ east end to replace the 1940s-era stadium. The 6,500-seat stadium project preserves the original World War II monument and will be able to hold 8,000 people for other events.

Prior to the groundbreaking, the city, school district and the One Roof Stadium Partnership are planning on holding a “final opportunity” and open house for people to say goodbye to the existing facility.

The free event will be held at the site on the Seattle Center grounds from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 26. Organizers said the event is an opportunity to experience the current stadium “one last time, purchase a bite to eat from one of the onsite food trucks and to picnic on the stadium turf.” The Seattle Public Schools All-City Marching Band will also be performing.

People are being encouraged to submit their photos and memories from the original Memorial Stadium. They could be shown on the stadium screen during the farewell event.

You can submit your photos and memories on Chime In and they will be shared with the organizers before the event. Photos and memories can also be shared here.

“Memorial Stadium is home to so many memories for our city,” said Seattle Center Director Marshall Foster. “It holds a special place in our collective history. We couldn’t be more excited to continue that legacy with a new state-of-the-art stadium which will serve student athletes and once again be a place for music and cultural events at Seattle Center.”