The Buffalo Bills' new stadium project hit a snag this week, as construction was temporarily halted due to vandalism. The construction management team, Gilbane | Turner, discovered graffiti across both completed and ongoing sections of the site, prompting a pause in work to maintain a respectful environment for all workers.
Gilbane | Turner, aiming to have the Highmark Stadium replacement ready before the 2026 NFL season, emphasized their commitment to a professional and respectful jobsite. "We suspended work because the people who come to this jobsite deserve to work in an environment that reflects respect and professionalism," the company stated. They have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of vandalism or behavior that disrupts this ethos.
In response to the incident, the company is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz reported that the graffiti included offensive images and language targeting the LGBTQ+ community, with repair costs estimated at $150,000.
Despite this setback, both Gilbane | Turner and Poloncarz assured fans that the stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y., will be ready in time for the Bills' upcoming season. "This stadium will be delivered on schedule. Maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive jobsite is our highest priority," Gilbane | Turner reiterated.
This isn't the first time the $1.7 billion project has faced challenges. Back in 2024, construction was also paused when a suspected hate symbol was found on-site. However, a police investigation concluded that there was no criminal intent behind that incident.
As the Bills' new home takes shape, the focus remains on ensuring a positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved in bringing this exciting project to life.