In most instances I agree that new sports stadiums are not cost effective, however, I believe that a new football stadium for Temple University is the exception. Because Temple does not have an on campus stadium, millions of dollars are spent leasing Lincoln Financial Field costing Temple $2 million a year. Temple is also charged a $12 million lease renewal fee.

Building a new stadium could cost up to $100 million (Snyder, Susan, Temple delays stadium plans, Philadelphia Daily News, 12/8/2015). During a 30 year period, Temple could be charged up to $40 million in lease renewal fees. A new stadium would save the lease renewal fees, bringing the actual cost down to $60 million. By saving the lease fees the new stadium would be paid off in 30 years (2 million x 30 years). This is the same amount of time it takes most new home owners to pay off their homes.

Temple's fan base has proven that an upgrade in scheduling will yield significant boosts in attendance. This year Lincoln Financial field was sold out twice and a paid attendance of close to 30 thousand was reported for two other games. Creative scheduling will also stimulate attendance. A cross town rivalry with Villanova would be prudent. Winning also helps. Temple has played for their conference championship in the last two seasons.

An on campus stadium could produce revenue for other events as well. It could be used to host high school football championships and all star games.

Investments are not without risks. Had Temple University taken the conservative approach 20 years ago, the Liacouras center would not have been built. Build the new stadium and they will come.