Steelers Fans Will Love These New Changes At Acrisure Stadium

The Pittsburgh Steelers fan base still oftentimes finds themselves referring to Acrisure Stadium as Heinz Field. The name Heinz Field was iconic, deeply tied to the city’s identity, and for many fans, it still feels strange to call it anything else. Even now, the familiar giant ketchup bottles that once poured during red zone trips remain visible inside the stadium, serving as a nostalgic reminder of the past.

Heinz Field officially became Acrisure Stadium starting with the 2022 NFL season, following a naming rights deal between the Steelers and Acrisure, a Michigan-based insurance brokerage firm. The change was announced in July 2022 after Heinz chose not to renew its naming rights agreement, ending a 21-year partnership. While the rebranding faced backlash from fans, the Steelers have since focused on improving the overall fan experience under the new name.

According to Julia Burdelski of Trib Live, the Steelers are planning $3.5 million in improvements to Acrisure Stadium’s concessions ahead of the NFL Draft. These upgrades are aimed at making the stadium more convenient and enjoyable for fans, with improved food and beverage service being a key focus. As the franchise moves forward, they’re hoping these changes will help fans warm up to Acrisure and create new memories in a stadium still rich with history.

"Steelers fans can expect to see some concession stand upgrades at Acrisure Stadium on Pittsburgh’s North Shore," Burdelski said. "PSSI Stadium LLC, an affiliate of the Steelers, on Thursday got the green light from the Sports & Exhibition Authority to convert two existing pantries at the UPMC and West Clubs into walk-in market places. Two existing concession stands in the same clubs will be upgraded to new self-order concession stands. The project is expected to cost about $3.5 million, said Doug Straley, project executive for the Sports & Exhibition Authority. PSSI will foot the bill."

Doug Straley is the executive for the Sports and Exhibition Authority who shared more details about the improvements coming. Straley stated that the new concession area will be between 500 and 750 square feet. 

This is another improvement underway as the city of Pittsburgh prepares to host the 2026 NFL Draft. The city is expected to bring in hundreds of thousands of fans for the draft.

"This is the latest of a string of upgrades to facilities and public spaces across Downtown and the North Shore as the city gears up to host the 2026 NFL Draft, which is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans," Burdelski said. "The Steelers also are planning to install a 10,000-12,000 square-foot artificial turf field for youth athletes on the south lawn beside the stadium. The field will be used for programs during Steelers games and other events hosted at the Stadium, including the draft."

The biggest change for Steelers fans to get excited about is the improved convenience of the concessions. Acrisure Stadium’s unique design sometimes puts fans in tricky spots when they’re trying to quickly grab snacks or food. This has often caused frustration, especially during busy game days.

Steelers Fans Can Expect A Better Game Day Experience With New Changes Coming

By adding more concession areas and making them easier to access, the overall game day experience will improve significantly. With the 2026 NFL Draft coming to Pittsburgh, these upgrades couldn’t come at a better time. Fans will not only enjoy better service but also more excitement as the city prepares for this major event.

That’s clearly the goal behind the $3.5 million worth of improvements planned for Acrisure Stadium. It’s exciting to see the Steelers investing in the fan experience and making the stadium a more enjoyable place for everyone. Now the Steelers fan base is focused on watching what transpires between the franchise and superstar pass rusher TJ Watt.

#SteelerNation