Big changes coming to Lambeau Field

GREEN BAY - The Green Bay Packers are planning more big changes at Lambeau Field. They come with a $140.5 million price tag.

During the Stadium District Board meeting Tuesday afternoon, Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy detailed changes to the Atrium and other facilities.

Murphy says the new multi-million dollar project is all about enhancing fan experience.

"We're excited about it. I think it's going to be real positive for the organization and also for the community," Murphy said.

The Pro Shop will be part of a new ground level, underneath the current Atrium floor. Curley's Pub will move down to where the Pro Shop is now, and the Hall of Fame will move from the basement up to the second floor.

Plans also call for a new east-side entrance and expansion of the Oneida Nation Gate.

"It's just another enhancement. If you look at this place a Saturday afternoon before a game, it's huge, but there's people here all winter long when the facility is not in use, so if you can make Curly's and you can make the Pro Shop more accessible, I think more people are going to come," said Stadium District Board Executive Director Pat Webb.

And with the addition of 7,000 new seats in the south end zone, Murphy feels it's the right move at the right time.

"This is an opportunity to really get the atrium right for the future," Murphy explained. "And, it will help us in terms of finances but I think just as importantly, it really sets us up for the future and makes sure that we can run our businesses much more efficiently."

The Pro Shop will remain open through the construction. However, Curly's Pub and the Hall of Fame will temporarily close at some point.

Murphy says he doesn't know exactly when and and for how long that will be. The first phase of the project is expected to start in March and will be completed by 2015.

The Packers will also upgrade football facilities as part of the renovation plans. The Packers plan to build a new strength and conditioning room and new area for walk-through practices.

That isn’t the only change for players. The players’ parking lot will move to the south side of the Oneida gate.

The project will be paid for by the Packers and through an NFL loan.