Aecom Hunt & Turner to Build Browns’ $2.4bn Stadium

Industry Insights from Next Move Strategy Consulting

Aecom Hunt and Turner Construction have been appointed joint construction managers for the Cleveland Browns’ new $2.4 billion enclosed stadium, Huntington Bank Field. The Haslam Sports Group confirmed the two firms will lead delivery of the 67,500-seat venue, partnering with Independence Construction and local collaborator DiGeronimo Companies.

A Shared Delivery Model for a Major Sports and Entertainment Venue

Enabling work began this month, with a formal groundbreaking planned for early 2026 and handover scheduled for 2029. The project, designed by global architecture firm HKS, aims to offer a distinctive fan experience highlighted by what the team describes as the NFL’s closest seating bowl, a translucent roof and a truss-free long-span roof structure.

Flexible Capacity and Large-Scale Programming

While the base seating is planned at 67,500, the stadium’s configuration will allow expansion to accommodate up to 75,000 spectators for major events — including NCAA Final Fours, international football matches and large concerts — enabling the venue to serve as a multipurpose anchor for the surrounding district.

Economic and Employment Impact

The scheme forms part of the largest economic development initiative in Northeast Ohio to date. Developers expect the programme to create more than 6,000 construction jobs during the build and to support thousands of permanent positions within the adjacent mixed-use district once complete.

Proven Stadium Experience on the Delivery Team

Both Aecom Hunt and Turner bring extensive experience in NFL venues, having worked on projects such as Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and SoFi Stadium. Turner is also involved in current stadium projects for the Buffalo Bills and, with AECOM Hunt, in the new Tennessee Titans stadium.

Leadership Comment

“Partnering with such respected and accomplished construction managers as Aecom Hunt and Turner will help us create a world-class stadium experience and entertainment district for our fans that will benefit the entire Northeast Ohio region,” said David Jenkins, president of Haslam Sports Group.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Joint construction management by Aecom Hunt and Turner Construction alongside Independence Construction and DiGeronimo Companies.

• 67,500-seat enclosed stadium with flexible capacity up to 75,000 for major events.

• Designed by HKS; includes a translucent, truss-free long-span roof and the NFL’s closest seating bowl.

• Enabling work underway; groundbreaking early 2026, completion planned for 2029.

• Expected to generate 6,000+ construction jobs and thousands of long-term roles in the adjoining mixed-use district.

Next Move Strategy Consulting’s View Point

This appointment signals a strategic alignment of experienced delivery partners for a high-profile civic and entertainment project. The combination of proven stadium expertise and a flexible, event-ready design positions Huntington Bank Field to serve as both a sports venue and a catalyst for broader mixed-use development — supporting short-term construction employment and longer-term economic activity in Northeast Ohio.

Source: Construction Briefing 

Prepared by: Next Move Strategy Consulting