HUNTSVILLE | The physical properties committee of the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees approved a resolution to increase the budget for the renovation and expansion of Sewell-Thomas Stadium by $5 million to reflect revised estimates for construction costs.

"Construction budgets are very time sensitive," said Tim Leopard, UA's assistant vice president for construction.

Leopard said the original $30 million budget was prepared two years ago. The resolution, which will be considered by the full board of trustees on Friday, would authorize a revised budget of $35 million and awarding construction contracts to the eventual low bidder for the work.

In September 2013, the trustees approved Davis Architects of Birmingham as the design firm and a preliminary budget of $30 million for the renovation and expansion of the stadium on Paul W. Bryant Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin this year and be completed by November 2015.

The budget increase is based on current market conditions for the construction package and costs associated with structural steel for the indoor batting facility, according to information presented to the board.

Leopard said the work to upgrade electrical systems and installation of infrastructure such as storm water systems is projected to be more expensive than originally estimated.

The project will be funded by $15 million in revenue bonds and $20 million from the Crimson Tide Foundation and gifts, according to the board packet. The Crimson Tide Foundation has received roughly $5 million in gifts for stadium, said Lynda Gilbert, vice president for Financial Affairs.

The expansion will increase the size of the facility - currently 32,801 square feet - by 96,199 square feet. The renovations call for the demolition of existing food service areas, restrooms, locker rooms, press box and other concourse functions.

Renovations will include a new outfield walk that connects with the concourse, a playground and mini infield for families, a pre-game picnic area, team store, commissary, new seats and an expanded canopy overhang over the primary seating area, according to the university's plans.

New player amenities including a home team locker room and lounge, showers and restrooms, meeting room, weight room, bullpen, four-lane indoor batting facility.

New fan amenities include a concourse with easy access to restrooms, improvements to concessions, additional seating, three club lounges, a homerun berm and a student section.