
Buffalo, NY – 01/31/2025 – RJ Watson, a leader in structural bearing technology, is proud to announce its future contribution to the construction of Miami Freedom Park, the upcoming home of Inter Miami CF. Set to become one of the most advanced soccer venues in the United States, Miami Freedom Park will incorporate RJ Watson’s high-load structural bearings to ensure the durability and longevity of its canopy structure and catwalks.
Engineering Excellence for a Landmark Stadium
RJ Watson will be supplying eight uplift-resisting high-load bearings for the canopy structure, which are currently in preliminary design. These bearings will be engineered to handle significant vertical and horizontal loads while allowing necessary movement to accommodate structural shifts. Each bearing will feature a vertical service load capacity of 400 kips, an uplift service load capacity of 150 kips, and 38 inches of total longitudinal displacement, ensuring flexibility in the stadium’s dynamic environment.
“Our expertise is typically seen in bridge engineering, but we are thrilled to apply our cutting-edge solutions to such an iconic sports venue,” said Eric Watson, Executive Vice President at RJ Watson. “Miami Freedom Park is more than just a stadium—it’s a transformative project that will serve as a major hub for soccer fans and the local community.”
A Game-Changer for Miami
Beyond serving as the home of Inter Miami CF, Miami Freedom Park will feature 58 acres of public parks and green space, a tech hub, retail and dining areas, and community soccer fields. The stadium will seat 25,000 fans, creating an immersive experience for Major League Soccer (MLS) matches and other events.
Notably, the project is set to be 100% privately funded by club ownership, with no taxpayer dollars used. Miami Freedom Park has already received overwhelming support from City of Miami residents, with more than 60% voting in favor during a 2019 referendum. The project was officially approved by the City of Miami Commission in April 2022, paving the way for its realization.
RJ Watson’s Role in the Future of Sports Infrastructure
RJ Watson continues to build a strong reputation for designing and manufacturing high-performance structural bearings that support infrastructure worldwide. While the company’s expertise has traditionally been in bridges, it is increasingly being sought after for innovative applications in stadiums and large-scale architectural structures.
Looking Ahead
As construction moves forward, RJ Watson is excited to see Miami Freedom Park take shape and deliver a one-of-a-kind experience for soccer fans and the Miami community. The stadium will not only host Inter Miami CF’s matches but will also serve as a year-round destination for residents and visitors alike.
RJ Watson remains committed to pushing the boundaries of engineering innovation and looks forward to continuing its work on transformative infrastructure projects across the country.
For more information about RJ Watson’s products and projects, visit www.rjwatson.com.