Gophers to address long lines at new stadium

Fans line up
University of Minnesota students line up to get into TCF Stadium for the home opener against Air Force, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009.
MPR Photo / Tim Post

University of Minnesota athletic director Joel Maturi said his staff is trying to work out problems with the new Gopher football stadium before the next game on Saturday.

Fans faced long lines to get in and long waits at concession stands at last Saturday's inaugural game at TCF Bank stadium on campus.

Maturi said on WCCO Tuesday that the stadium will open for seating 30 minutes earlier -- two hours before gametime. He said a couple more gates and a couple more express lines will be opened for people who aren't carrying bags that have to be searched.

Maturi acknowledged that nobody should have to wait 30 to 40 minutes to get a hot dog. He said those waits could be cut by adding more concession workers.

In response to complaints about the volume of the loudspeakers from area residents, Maturi said they'll also see what they can do about redirecting the speakers to reduce the noise outside the stadium.

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