January 19, 2007

Vikings propose domed stadium to replace domed stadium

The latest out of Minnesota is that the Vikings, rebuffed by suburban Anoka County, will on soon announce plans for a new retractable-roofed stadium on the site of their current non-retractable-roofed stadium, the Metrodome. The team is reportedly looking into sharing the new University of Minnesota football stadium while the old dome is being demolished and the new one built.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty wouldn't say much about the latest Vikings stadium plan until he hears details - the team is reportedly planning to make an announcement on February 1 - but did question how it would be financed:

Pawlenty tells WCCO AM that Minneapolis has an ordinance that essentially says the city can't spend money on a stadium, while Hennepin County has just imposed a countywide sales tax to help pay for a new Twins ballpark.

Pawlenty wonders how one or both of those places could financially host a stadium.

Excellent questions, if I do say so myself.