Editorial: Metrodome 0, Minn. Vikings 1

Published 7:31 am Wednesday, December 15, 2010

The collapse of the roof of the Metrodome over the weekend should give momentum to the cause of getting a new football stadium for Minneapolis.

After all, where does Minnesota expect the Vikings to play? The Metrodome is falling apart. Target Field is for baseball. TCF Bank Stadium could be a nice temporary home but is not an NFL-type stadium.

As we have stated before, funding for a suitable football stadium ought to come from a metropolitan revenue stream, rather than from state-government coffers. Metropolitan visionaries brought pro sports teams to Minnesota, but recent metro leaders lack the foresight to get a deal with the Vikings. Perhaps now — with some new leaders in place, with the roof collapse making Minneapolis a national laughingstock and with pressure from Los Angeles — something can get done.

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The Vikings rank last in revenue among NFL teams, primary because the stadium they play in is outdated. However, they have a loyal fan base that buys tickets, and the team attracts high ratings when it comes to eyeballs glued to TV sets during their games — among the best in the NFL.

There are economic reasons for more than the owners on why this market is perfect for an NFL team. We urge the metro leaders and the Vikings to find common ground and get a stadium deal done this coming legislative session.