Kaler: TCF Bank stadium 'quite adequate' for Vikings

Waiting for the game
The Vikings played at TCF Bank stadium once before, in late 2010 after the Metrodome's roof collapsed. University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler says it would be adequate as a temporary home for the Vikings.
MPR File Photo/Jeffrey Thompson

University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler says TCF Bank stadium would be "quite adequate" as a temporary home for the Vikings.

The Vikings could use the stadium for up to three years if the team decides to renovate and continue using the Metrodome in Minneapolis.

To host the Vikings, the Gophers would have to add seats and heat the field, among other improvements. University officials have said licensing and alcohol-usage policies would be negotiated, and Kaler said the university would have to work out other issues.

"The neighborhoods around the stadium certainly are impacted by our game-day activities," Kaler said. "It would be an imposition on neighborhoods. There are traffic concerns, public safety concerns, parking concerns. All of them legitimate, all of them important, and all of them ultimately addressable."

Kaler said it's still unclear how much it would cost for the university to host the Vikings.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.