Highmark Stadium reaches major construction milestone with topping out ceremony as final steel beam rises 156 feet, signaling new era for Buffalo Bills and Western New York

Orchard Park, New York – In Orchard Park, a significant milestone was achieved in the construction of the new Highmark Stadium, future home of the Buffalo Bills. The event was marked by a topping out ceremony, a tradition in the building trade that celebrates the placement of the last major structural piece of steel. Governor Kathy Hochul, alongside representatives from Erie County and the Buffalo Bills, was present to witness the installation of the final beam, which rose 156 feet above the ground.

This ceremony not only represented a pivotal point in the stadium’s construction but also signified the collaboration and hard work of numerous workers and firms involved in this expansive project. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of the stadium to the region, noting it as one of the largest construction projects ever in Western New York. She praised the skilled union workers and partners for their dedication, looking forward to the stadium’s completion and the inaugural Bills game in the 2026 NFL season.

The construction of the $2.1 billion stadium is about 50 percent complete. It began 20 months ago and involves cutting-edge technology and facilities designed to offer a top-notch experience for spectators. Features of the stadium include a sophisticated acoustic system, the world’s largest snow melt system on the roof, heated concourses and seating areas, and two massive video boards to enhance viewing experiences.

The ceremony had over 1,400 guests including hundreds of organized labor members. The final beam, adorned with an American flag and an evergreen tree—a symbol of good luck and prosperity—was signed by hundreds of construction workers, stakeholders, and partners. This act of solidarity and commemoration highlights the community and teamwork spirit driving this project.

The construction team has installed over 22,000 pieces of steel, weighing more than 25,000 tons, with a significant portion sourced within New York State. The project also saw the removal of vast quantities of dirt and the laying down of extensive foundational work, including concrete and miles of piping, indicating the sheer scale of this endeavor.

As the project moves forward, the focus will shift more towards the interior, roof, and exterior enclosure. Plans include installing a canopy structure and precast materials for the building’s exoskeleton this spring. The stadium will also feature a 360-degree canopy covering most of the seating area, providing shelter from elements and enhancing the fan experience.

The Highmark Stadium is set to be more than just a sports venue. It will host a variety of events, both sporting and non-sporting, and will boast amenities like a welcoming plaza with a sculpture of an American Bison family, a mix of concessions, retail stores, and accessible facilities for people with disabilities. With its strategic location offering views of Lake Erie, downtown Buffalo, and the Boston Hills, the stadium aims to become a world-class entertainment hub for Western New York.