UNA and HPM Join Forces to Create Bank Independent Stadium
HPM was pleased to gather with leaders from University of North Alabama (UNA) for a press conference announcing our partnership in creating the upcoming Bank Independent Stadium, a state-of-the-art, multipurpose facility on UNA’s campus. The university also named Davis Architects the selected Architect of Record to carry out the design phase of the project. The design phase has officially commenced and the project is targeted for completion in the 2026-2027 academic year. HPM will serve as UNA’s owner’s representative, providing program management and preconstruction services.
A Word from Dr. Josh Looney
UNA Athletic Director, Dr. Josh Looney led the press conference held on December 15. Dr. Looney shared that the stadium will be thoughtfully designed for year-round utilization by UNA and the wider Shoals community. He proceeded to explain the venue will re-develop the campus space that currently houses the UNA turf field, Mike D. Lane Field and a grass practice field, incorporating UNA’s football, baseball and soccer teams into the re-imagined design. In addition to sporting events, Bank Independent Stadium will also enrich the community with concerts, live performances and more. The new facility will serve as the new home for the University of North Alabama Lions football team. For over 70 years, the Lions played football at Braly Municipal Stadium, an off-campus facility owned by Florence City Schools.
Ben Henson Discusses HPM’s Involvement
HPM’s Vice President of Program Development, Ben Henson discussed our involvement on the project. Ben explained that HPM will start with preconstruction, and continue to oversee budgeting and scheduling, design management, risk assessment and contract negotiation. Dr. Looney and Ben spoke to HPM’s experience and qualifications that position us as the ideal program management firm for the job. Specific acknowledgements were made highlighting our work on over two million square feet of athletic facility projects. Ben shared that a detailed plan for the stadium including more information about the scope, features and cost will be formulated after the design phase is complete.
Courtney Pittman Details Relationship Between Davis + HPM
To conclude the press conference, Courtney Pittman, Vice President of Davis Architects highlighted the firm’s unique qualifications for the job. Courtney listed a number of higher education projects on which Davis Architects and HPM have collaborated. Our long history of partnership has created a working dynamic built upon thorough communication and trust. This is sure to serve UNA well as the design phase is integrated with the project at large.
Exciting Days Ahead
HPM looks forward to leveraging our vast portfolio of stadium experience in partnership with the outstanding university as they realize a much-anticipated goal on behalf of students, athletes and the community at large!
