News Summary
Thousands of Jacksonville Jaguars fans attended the preseason opener at EverBank Stadium, experiencing the impact of ongoing renovations. Entry procedures changed and some fans faced challenges accessing seating areas due to construction. Despite frustrations related to traffic and modified access, attendees expressed excitement for future enhancements. The Jaguars organization aims to improve the game-day experience, although temporary inconveniences were noted. Fans are encouraged to plan their arrivals accordingly as the team prepares for upcoming games this season.
Jacksonville – Thousands of Jacksonville Jaguars fans attended the team’s preseason opener at EverBank Stadium, marking their first game experience since significant renovations began in February. Fans navigated altered entry procedures and faced a few challenges due to ongoing construction, including modified access to seating areas.
Many season ticket holders noted the absence of escalators at Gates 2 and 3, which are currently removed as part of the renovation process. Fans without mobility assistance had to utilize ramps to reach their seats in the stadium. However, elevators and an escalator by the South End Zone remain operational for those needing help. The ongoing renovation also includes expanding the canopy and concourse and enhancing the main staircase by Gate 1.
Despite the changes, fans expressed excitement about the enhancements that promise better sun protection and improved comfort during games. The Jaguars organization reassured attendees that while parking and entry procedures are evolving this season, the game-day experience inside the bowl will largely remain the same.
Fans reported needing to adapt to new entry points during the game, with some using Zone 2 instead of the previously common West Gallagher. Many found the adjustments manageable and were willing to embrace the temporary inconveniences for the anticipated improvements. The Jaguars have urged fans to plan their arrival in advance and enter through the designated gates on their tickets to ensure a smoother experience.
Anticipating future changes, the Stadium of the Future plan aims to reduce the stadium’s capacity to 43,500 by 2026. This plan includes the Jaguars’ relocation away from EverBank Stadium in 2027, with a reopening scheduled for Fall 2028. Fans remain committed to attending games despite challenges posed by renovations, with some humorously suggesting their willingness to assist the team on the field.
The preseason opener also saw fans encountering frustrating traffic conditions as a result of ongoing construction and reduced parking availability. Surveys from attendees indicated that many experienced delays, with video footage showing long lines of vehicles exiting the stadium area post-game. Some fans reported waiting up to an hour to leave due to these traffic issues. The previously accessible parking lots C, D, and J have also been impacted by renovations, contributing to the constrained parking situation.
Nonetheless, the atmosphere outside the stadium remained energetic, with fans engaging in tailgating activities while conveying excitement for the new season. Optimism was prevalent among many attendees, who expressed a willingness to endure temporary inconveniences for the promise of enhanced facilities in the future.
Organizational representatives provided details about changes related to entry and exit patterns to help fans navigate the revised layout. General admission ticket holders were advised to use Gates 1, 2, 3, or the newly expanded Gate 4 for entry, while club and suite members were instructed to enter through the East and West Club gates. To assist with navigation, additional staff has been allocated throughout the stadium premises.
Hospitality areas remained open for fans, and the organization directed attendees to visit the official Jaguars website for updated parking maps and gate information ahead of games. The Jaguars are set to play their next preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 9 at 7 p.m., with the first regular season home game scheduled for September 7 against the Carolina Panthers.
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Additional Resources
- WOKV: EverBank Stadium Construction Adds Post-Game Traffic Frustrations for Jaguars Fans
- First Coast News: Jaguars Preseason Game Amid Construction
- News4Jax: Game Day Guide for Jaguars Fans
- Jacksonville.com: EverBank Stadium Construction Updates
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville Jaguars
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