MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The Minnesota Vikings are kicking in another $19.7 million for their new stadium to make sure it has the features they want.
Rising steel prices and refined cost estimates for the stadium’s massive pivoting glass doors created a budget shortfall and left the Vikings with a choice: Scrap certain features to cut costs or increase their share of the project.
Steve Poppen, the Vikings’ chief financial officer, said scaling back stadium design was “never an option.” The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, the board overseeing stadium construction, approved the increased spending Friday.
“Our goal has always been to have the best game day experience, for our fans and for all Minnesotans who come to visit this stadium,” Poppen said.
The new stadium is due to open in 2016. The Vikings are playing outdoors at the University of Minnesota until then.