In a presentation that included music and computer-animated graphics, Browns executives unveiled the two new, bigger scoreboards they’re hoping to build at the stadium.
Team owner Jimmy Haslam said those scoreboards grab fans’ attention in a way the current ones don’t.
“These scoreboards, which are much closer to the field, both in terms of horizontally and vertically, and will be approximately three times as large, will dramatically change the fans’ experience at FirstEnergy Stadium," Haslam said.
That will mean removing about 3,000 seats and moving some others from the upper decks closer to the field.
The team also wants a new audio system, new escalators and better food at concessions stands. The proposals did not include a dome.
The price tag for all of these upgrades: $120 million.
Browns’ CEO Joe Banner said he’ll be sitting down with the mayor and city council to work out how much of that will fall to taxpayers.
“This is a proposal at this point," Banner said. "We’re going to meet with the city and go over this with the appropriate committees, and groups in the city, as well as the mayor and city council, but we wanted to present to you.”
The city of Cleveland owns the stadium, and as part of its lease agreement with the Browns is responsible for repairs and some upgrades.
Just last year, the Browns made $5.8 million in stadium repairs, which the city is paying back.
Money for repairs now largely comes from a countywide tax on cigarettes and alcohol, which is set to expire in 2015 and will likely come before voters soon for renewal.
