Minnesota Vikings: U.S. Bank Stadium ‘substantially complete’
By Adam Carlson
Construction is now substantially complete on U.S. Bank Stadium, which will serve as the new home of the Minnesota Vikings starting in the 2016 season.
Looking back on everything it took to get a new stadium in Minnesota, it’s been an amazing process. From the roof collapse of the Metrodome to fans and officials lobbying for the state to approve the new facility, it has been a long and winding road.
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Thankfully, the bulk of the work is over when it comes to the new home of the Minnesota Vikings. After only facing minor hiccups and a handful of setbacks along the way, it was announced on the official website of the Minnesota Vikings that construction on U.S. Bank Stadium is now substantially complete.
For those unaware what that means, substantially complete is a construction term when is defined as “when construction is finished except for minor remaining work, and the building can be used for its intended purpose.” And, of course, that intended purpose is Minnesota Vikings football, concerts, events, and more!
Even better than the news that U.S. Bank Stadium is substantially complete is the fact that is has been accomplished 45 days before schedule. Chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority Michele Kelm-Helgen is very pleased with the results.
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"“Mortenson Construction has done a phenomenal job keeping us ahead of schedule while building the most amazing stadium in the United States. Mortenson took building the largest transparent roof in North America and the largest operable doors in the world in stride, and succeeded. We are proud to be their partner.”"
Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf joined in the showering of praise on Mortenson Construction with a glowing statement about their hard work on the future home of professional football in Minnesota.
"“Today’s achievement is an incredible feat by HKS, Mortenson Construction, the MSFA and the Vikings, as well as the hundreds of subcontractors and thousands of Minnesota men and women who worked on this project over the last two and a half years. U.S. Bank Stadium was designed with the fan experience as the number one priority, and to accomplish this milestone ahead of schedule is a testament to the talent and dedication by so many.”"
Next: Vikings game-by-game 2016 season preview
Of course, the Minnesota Vikings will have two opportunities to show off U.S. Bank Stadium during the preseason, but the real excitement will come on Sunday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers on September 18, 2016 when the team will have their first home opener in the new facility and raise the NFC North championship banner.