'Prime Effect': First look at bigger video board coming to CU's Folsom Field

University of Colorado putting record-breaking money back into upgrades

CU Buffs

Things continue to get bigger and better for the University of Colorado.

A new scoreboard at Folsom Field will be added to the south stands by next year's season opener against North Dakota State. This is big news for CU Football as it continues to show the growth and the investment the university is willing to put into the program to make CU a top destination for fans and athletes.

The Buffs in years past have been slow to add new technology and infrastructure to Folsom Field, but the 'Prime Effect' is changing all of that. Until 2012, CU always used portable lights before permanent lighting was installed around the stadium. And like the lights, the wait will be worth it as the new technology will allow for more creative opportunities. CU Video's Emmy Award-winning team will be able to add unique graphics as well as better replay views for fans.

There will be a big screen stretching ten sections facing the field and two smaller ones on the opposite side for tailgaters outside Folsom Field. Fans will clearly be able to see the down and distance and the other unique and key information. The new scoreboard will enhance one of the best game day atmospheres in the country.

CU Buffs

The new board will measure 130 feet wide by 36 feet high, eight feet taller than the current board and 98 feet wider, or about the same width of the current ribbon board under the current video board, which measures 32 feet by 28 feet. The board will go from being one of the smallest in the Power 5 conferences to above the national average of all schools within those conferences.

While a scoreboard doesn't feel like the biggest change, it will be making a huge difference when it comes to the feel of the game at the 100-year-old venue.

Just look at how Folsom Field and the University have changed for the better with the addition of stadium renovation. Whether it be club seating, a rooftop terrace, or the Champions Center. It has always been one of the most beautiful venues in the world and CU continues to add key upgrades without losing the beauty and integrity. 

“Enhancing the atmosphere of Folsom Field on game day is always a top priority and we are always looking for ways to improve,” CU Athletic Director Rick George said. “I’m confident this new video board will further enrich and elevate the game day experience for our fans next year in our first season in the Big 12 Conference.”

The majority of the approximately $15 million project will go into the steel infrastructure to support the new video board, which will include four new columns running from the bottom of the video board to the ground around the south side of the stadium.