PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State fans will see a dramatically different Martin Stadium when the Cougars take the field this fall.
A $10 million renovation project at Gesa Field is nearing the finish line, bringing a series of upgrades designed to enhance the game-day experience before the start of the 2026 football season.
The improvements include a brand-new playing surface, upgraded LED stadium lights, a state-of-the-art video board and a new sound system. One of the most unique moments of the project came earlier this month, when a Huey helicopter lifted and installed the new stadium lighting as part of the renovation.
Washington State Athletic Director Jon Haarlow said seeing the project come together has been rewarding and credited donors and staff who helped make it possible.
“I’m so grateful for the generous supporters that made it happen,” Haarlow said. “The team’s done a great job and they pulled it together pretty quick.”
While the new lights and turf are already in place, work continues on the massive video board and upgraded audio system. Harlow said crews are putting the finishing touches on the project before testing all of the new technology.
“I think we’ve got another two weeks of work and then do some testing on the hardware and software, make sure everything is synced up and ready to go,” Haarlow said. “We’re knocking on the finish line here.”
The renovations are intended to create a more energetic atmosphere on Cougar game days while modernizing one of the Pac-12’s most recognizable venues.
“Cougar Football Saturdays are iconic,” Haarlow said. “There have been so many legends that have played here. We’re trying to find ways to inject more energy, new energy, and this is a great way to do it.”
The stadium upgrades come as excitement builds around a new era of Washington State football. Haarlow said the combination of new facilities, a new coaching staff and a new season has created plenty of anticipation in Pullman.
“It’s an exciting time to be a Cougar,” he said.
In addition to the stadium renovations, Washington State also unveiled a brand-new football locker room this week, continuing its investment in improving facilities for student-athletes.
The Cougars are expected to have the stadium upgrades completed and fully tested before the start of the 2026 home schedule.
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