Ramsey Co. officials say deal on stadium edging closer
Officials in Ramsey County say they are edging toward a deal with the Minnesota Vikings for a new stadium in Arden Hills.
Ramsey County commissioners voted earlier this year to negotiate with the NFL team on an agreement to be the team's local partner in a three-way deal with the state. Commissioner Tony Bennett said he thinks the talks have been fruitful.
"We've made a lot of progress. We've talked over a lot of their concerns and our concerns, and we've reached agreement on a lot of those areas," Bennett said.
Bennett said however he has not seen a formal proposal in writing yet, but said he hopes that it would be soon. He said that the next couple of days are crucial.
Two other sites remain in contention, including the Farmers Market area west of downtown Minneapolis and the site of the Metrodome. The team's lease is up after this season, and the Vikings say they need a new venue. A bill outlining the state's role in a deal has been introduced at the Capitol, but has yet to get a hearing.
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