The Metropolitan Council is set to consider a deal to build a pedestrian bridge over the street to the new U.S. Bank Stadium. The current projected cost of the bridge is $6 million, but the Minnesota Vikings are willing to contribute half that cost, with their maximum contribution being $3.5 million.
According to an article on the StarTribune website, the initial deal was for the Metropolitan Council to cover the entire cost of the bridge that links to the light-rail system, but that didn’t go over well with some members.
"“Under terms of the agreement, the Vikings will pay up to $3.5 million for the bridge near the Downtown East light-rail station, but any costs above $7 million will be the responsibility of the regional planning body. The Met Council will vote on the retooled agreement on Wednesday.A previous deal called for the Met Council to pay for the entire cost of the bridge, but several members balked, saying the team should pay for the entire project, or at least a part of it.”"
Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings fans celebrate a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the second quarter of the game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
The Vikings have been more than accommodating with the finances of U.S. Bank Stadium. Recently, they have increased their contributions on several occasions, most notably to include more skyboxes and improve the video/audio system in the building. Both Minnesota and the Vikings are putting a lot of effort into making U.S. Bank Stadium a “must see” destination for anyone visiting the state.
Personally, I can’t wait to walk over that bridge and through the doors of U.S. Bank Stadium. Hopefully, the Minnesota Vikings team will be a great to see as this futuristic stadium will be when it opens in 2016.
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