Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC have announced a phased seating expansion project at Interbay Stadium, with construction on the first phase scheduled to begin in April.
Phase 1 of the project will add 267 new aluminum bleacher seats to the southeast section of the stadium ahead of the 2026 season. The new seating will match the existing bleachers at the stadium. Construction is scheduled to begin April 6 and be completed by April 17.
Interbay Stadium currently has 1,000 seats, along with additional standing-room capacity. The first phase represents more than a 25% increase in seated capacity for the 2026 season.
The expansion is fully funded by Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC.
“This project is about growing responsibly while staying true to who we are and the needs of our community,” said Sam Zisette, co-founder and president of Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC. “Phase 1 is being fully funded by the clubs because we believe in reinvesting directly into the community that supports us. Demand for our home matches at Interbay has continued to grow, and this expansion allows us to sustainably welcome more people to our matches without fundamentally changing the character of the stadium or the ticket price to attend.”
A second phase of the project could add another 267 seats in the southwest section of the stadium, along with a possible canopy cover over both new sections. If completed, the two phases together would increase the stadium’s seating capacity by more than 50%.
“We’re committed to making the matchday experience at Interbay Stadium the best it can be, while keeping matches affordable and accessible,” Zisette said. “Looking ahead, Phase 2 will require continued community support to justify the completion of the project, meaning we can only complete Phase 2 if we see the demand is there this coming season.”
Interbay Stadium, constructed in 1997 in partnership with Seattle Pacific University, is owned and operated by Seattle Parks and Recreation. The facility is used by a range of groups, including Seattle Pacific University soccer teams, high school and youth sports, adult recreational leagues, and both Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC.
The clubs say the expansion will benefit all users of the stadium, including youth programs and community events.
The 2026 USL 2 and USL W schedules include a combined 13 home games for Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC at Interbay Stadium between May and July. The teams expect increased demand during the 2026 FIFA World Cup window, when international visitors are expected to be in Seattle.
Further updates on construction and potential plans for Phase 2 will be shared as they are developed.
Photos courtesy Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC