New Brunswick, NJ -- (Sports Network) - The Board of Governors of Rutgers approved a plan to expand Rutgers Stadium on Tuesday.

The $102 million project will increase the stadium's capacity to 56,000. It will be funded entirely by ticket sales revenue and from private donations. Rutgers students will still have free access to football tickets.

"The continued success of the Scarlet Knights football program is an important goal for the University," Rutgers President Richard L. McCormick said. "Academics and athletics reinforce each other and Rutgers is committed to excellence in both endeavors."

The Scarlet Knights experienced a dramatic resurgence in the past few years, which includes three consecutive bowl appearances, two consecutive bowl victories and 26 wins in three seasons.

The University has already received more than 10,000 deposits for new season tickets for football.