University Of Minnesota Agrees To Let Vikings Use TCF Stadium During Construction

What a week!  The Vikings stadium plan made it through in the nick of time, with the team expected to play there in 2016.  The Vikings will play at the Metrodome in 2012, but what happens after that?  They may get some more time in the 'dome, but they will play at least one season on the University Of Minnesota campus at TCF Stadium.

According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, the Board of Regents approved a resolution Friday authorizing President Eric Kaler to deliver a non-binding letter of intent to the Vikings. Next, the parties would draw up a lease agreement, which the board would vote on in late summer. As landlord, the U stands to make $3 million per NFL season.

The letter allows the team to play at the Bank for up to four consecutive NFL seasons, starting in 2013. Mark Wilf said Friday that the team would play there "one season for sure."  The Vikings will pay for upgrades such as heated coils under the turf and additional seating.

The next conversation will involve alcohol sales at the stadium, which is currently now allowed.  The Vikings want to sell hard liquor in the club seating, boxes and suites and beer and wine throughout the stadium.  Whatever alcohol related compromise is decided upon, it will have to handled separately from the lease agreement as it requires further university approval.

It's nice to be thinking about the debate of alcohol at a temporary home rather than the stadium business which as dominated headlines for so long.  It should be an interesting few years while construction occurs, but the fall of 2016 should be quite an exciting time for the state!