UWF awarded $2 Million TDC grant toward Darrell Gooden Stadium

The University of West Florida has been awarded a $2 million grant from the Tourist Development Council through the Tourist Development Tax program to support the construction of the future Darrell Gooden Stadium, pending approval from the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. This grant represents a significant milestone in the University's plan to build a transformative facility that will benefit both the UWF campus and the greater Escambia County community.

"This generous investment from the Tourist Development Council underscores the powerful connection between higher education and regional vitality," said UWF President Martha D. Saunders. "The Darrell Gooden Stadium will be a catalyst for connection - inspiring school pride, welcoming future students and their families, and creating new opportunities for economic growth across the region."

The proposed stadium will elevate the student experience and serve as a hub for community engagement, hosting UWF football games, high school matchups, band competitions, outdoor concerts and other large-scale events. The upgraded facility will replace the current temporary structure and nearly double seating capacity from 3,800 to 7,500. New features will include expanded seating options, including large seats, a club area and suites - spaces that can accommodate over 500 guests for conferences and special events.

"This is more than a football stadium - it's a community asset designed to serve a wide range of users," said UWF Athletic Director Dave Scott. "With the support of the community, the Tourist Development Council and private donors, this stadium will become a cornerstone of UWF's future."

The project aligns with UWF's strategic goal of growing enrollment to 16,000 students, while also enhancing the campus tour and orientation experience. A new Visitor Center will be integrated into the stadium project, becoming the "front porch" of both the university and Pensacola, welcoming thousands of prospective students and their families annually.

Economic impact studies from the UWF Haas Center project significant benefits from the stadium. Over a five-year period, the football program alone is expected to generate $23.3 million in economic output and contribute $8.7 million to Escambia County's gross regional product - not including the estimated $124.2 million in construction-related output. Historically, UWF athletics has generated $248.6 million in total economic output over five years, while the university itself contributes approximately $1.4 billion annually.

For more information on UWF Athletics, visit goargos.com. To give to the University, visit uwf.edu/give. For more information on the UWF Haas Center and to download the UWF Athletics Economic Impact report, visit uwf.edu/haas.