East Carolina University
Dowdy Ficklen Stadium Renovation
Through strategic planning and transformative design, TowneBank Tower redefines the East Carolina University game day experience, creating a vibrant destination that advances athletics, strengthens donor engagement, and celebrates Pirate pride.
LOCATION Greenville, NC
COMPLETED 2019
SIZE 80,000 SF
PHOTOGRAPHER Robb Williamson
DESIGN PARTNER AECOM
Elevating the Student Athlete Experience
Partnering with AECOM, LS3P helped shape the master plan and design vision for TowneBank Tower and the broader enhancement of ECU Athletics facilities. Early planning studies evaluated renovation and expansion opportunities across the athletics campus, resulting in targeted improvements to the Ward Sports Medicine Building. Renovations introduced a modern football locker room, player lounge, equipment distribution center, athletic training and hydrotherapy facilities, and a refreshed reception area, creating a cohesive environment focused on athlete performance, wellness, and recruitment.
Optimizing Game Day
At the heart of the project is the new 80,000 SF TowneBank Tower, which replaced the existing press box and light towers with a dynamic multi-use venue overlooking Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The tower houses premium hospitality spaces including the Trade Club, donor suites, and loge boxes, alongside dedicated accommodations for coaches, media, and security staff. Beyond the stadium, the design extends into the campus experience through a new entry plaza, ceremonial promenade, and more than 500 tailgate parking spaces equipped with power and cable connections. Carefully phased construction allowed the project to remain operational throughout football seasons, including the integration of temporary press facilities during the 2018 season, culminating in the successful opening of TowneBank Tower in September 2019 as a defining new gateway to ECU Athletics.
