The University of Georgia has announced plans to redevelop the Legion Pool and Legion Field area, aiming to enhance student life by transforming the site into a larger community green space. The project will remove the existing pool, pool house, and concert stand, replacing them with an expanded field and a new outdoor amphitheater.
Dean of Students Eric Atkinson said, “We’re very excited about how this project will enhance the living-learning experience of our students. As part of the redevelopment, Legion Pool, its pool house, and the existing concert stand will be removed, and Legion Field will be significantly expanded to create a beautiful and functional community green space. The project also includes a new outdoor amphitheater that will take advantage of the site’s natural topography, creating a versatile venue for concerts, programs, and events.”
University Architect Gwynne Darden described the design as focused on both gathering and reflection. “The Legion Field design emphasizes both gathering and reflection — spaces where students can meet friends, relax between classes, or enjoy performances in a scenic, shaded setting. In addition, the plan provides approximately 70 new parking spaces designated for students living and learning in the area, which is highly utilized by thousands of students every day. Together with the nearby West Campus Dining, Learning, and Well-being Center, these projects will transform the west campus area into one of the university’s most active hubs for student life and engagement,” Darden said.
The redeveloped field is expected to benefit students by providing a central location surrounded by residence halls and other student facilities. Atkinson explained that open spaces support mental health and foster community. He noted that national research shows more than half of college students report mental health challenges and that access to natural areas improves well-being.
The new amphitheater will offer additional space for student organizations to hold performances and events. With over 900 registered student groups at UGA, Atkinson emphasized the need for flexible outdoor programming near major student facilities.
Parking has also been addressed in response to repeated student feedback. The project includes about 70 new parking spots specifically for students in the area.
Development plans were created by a working group led by Atkinson starting in February. The group reviewed usage data, financial records, environmental studies, and consulted with stakeholders before recommending redevelopment over costly repairs to aging pool infrastructure. Atkinson said maintaining the pool would have required significant investment but served only a small portion of students.
Legion Pool has experienced declining use—total visits have dropped nearly 55% since 1998—and ongoing operating deficits funded mostly through student fees. Atkinson stated: “Despite low utilization, students have largely funded the pool’s operating costs and fully absorbed its $438,000 cumulative deficit over the past five years — including nearly $90,000 last year alone. Legion Pool has incurred operating deficits for 24 consecutive years. That model simply isn’t sustainable.”
Student activity fees previously used to cover these costs will now be redirected toward initiatives like the UGA Food Pantry and emergency aid programs intended to address basic needs among students experiencing financial hardship. Atkinson said: “Under this plan, the student activity fee reserves that previously covered Legion Pool’s operating costs and deficits will now be redirected to support programs that have a direct and measurable impact on students — such as the UGA Food Pantry, which provides essential food items and basic supplies to students experiencing food insecurity.”
Preliminary work may begin later this year with an anticipated opening of Fall 2026 for the redeveloped Legion Field.
Darden concluded: “We are aiming for the redeveloped Legion Field to open in Fall 2026 as a dynamic new space that reflects the university’s commitment to student success, sustainability, and well-being. When it’s completed, this expanded area will serve as a space for gathering, community-building, and wellness that signals UGA’s lasting commitment to addressing the needs of students.”
