Construction has resumed at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y., after police identified but did not arrest two suspects in connection with $150,000 in property damage that halted work on the $2.1 billion stadium project for nearly a week. said the joint venture Gilbane Building Cos. and Turner Construction that is building it for the National Football League’s Buffalo Bills.
Local officials investigating the vandalism told WIVB4 they found “spray-painted pornographic images,” described as homophobic in nature. multiple locations, including some luxury suites in the stadium. Investigators said an oil-based paint used to commit the vandalism got into some of the venue’s granite and marble surfaces, tiles, woodwork and flooring, prompting the need to remove and replace them.
Gilbane-Turner said the joint venture A $100,000 reward for information led to the identification of construction workers at the site, and local law enforcement was still investigating the involvement of up to five other workers. informed WBE.
Information about the names of the workers, their employers, employment status and disciplinary measures taken was not disclosed.
The joint venture team “has worked diligently to create a respectful and supportive environment on this project,” Gilbane-Turner said in a statement. “We’ve made significant investments in workplace equipment to support trade workers who carry out demanding work, often in challenging weather conditions. They deserve a professional and respectful workplace.”
Zero tolerance policy
Shutting down stadium construction in response to the graffiti supports Turner Construction’s zero-tolerance policy for harassment and bullying at its workplaces, which the contractor says extends to its employees, subcontractors and vendors.
Construction of the stadium was also temporarily halted in October 2024 as a precaution after a symbol was discovered at the site that was initially believed to be a hate symbol. But law enforcement later determined it was not malicious in nature.
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“The actions of a very small number of people do not reflect the values or behavior of the approximately 8,000 people who have worked on this project to date. [who] demonstrate professionalism, pride and respect every day,” the joint venture added.
Design firm Populous is the architect of record for the 1.35 million square meter outdoor stadiumwhich reached 50% completion in April 2025 with a target opening date prior to the Sept. 10 start of the Buffalo Bills’ 2026 transit season. Legends Project Development is the project management company.
The stadium is expected to have a minimum capacity of 60,000 seats with suites, ledge seats, clubs and other premium seating areas, including a Auxiliary building of 18,750 square meters.
