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Major League Soccer (MLS) is the premier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. Currently composed of 20 teams — 17 in the United States and three in Canada — franchise expansions to Minnesota, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Miami are expected in the next few years. As Toronto's BMO Field undergoes renovations to equip the soccer complex with a roof, stadium design experts Populous have unveiled their plans for the home of the future Minnesota United FC.
The $150 million, 20,000-seat stadium will be situated on former bus barn property at the corner of Snelling Avenue and University Avenue in the city of St. Paul, whose built area merges with Minneapolis. The full cost of the project will be financed by Minnesota United, which was awarded an MLS franchise in 2015 after five years of playing in the North American Soccer League. Upon completion, the stadium will become publicly owned.
A wraparound canopy will shield spectators from the elements and a field heating system ensures a suitable pitch at all times. The seating bowl enclosure has been designed to be "one of the most intimidating home pitch atmospheres in all of Major League Soccer," according to press release materials. Three hospitality clubs, a variety of suites and a 1,600-square-foot retail store will also be housed within the building, while an LED lighting system enlivens its skin. At ground level, Populous envisions native Minnesota limestone, burnished block and glass finishings.
“We are truly excited to unveil the architectural vision for the new home of the Minnesota United. This new facility will provide the city of St. Paul and the northern Midwest region a year-round destination for both soccer and entertainment. This building is designed to be a soccer first facility, but it is also designed to host events year round,” said Bruce Miller, Senior Principal at Populous. “The new Minnesota United stadium offers a bold vision for the future of soccer and aspires to become an international stage for the Beautiful Game. The building will be both contextually and climatically responsive and offers an intense fan experience both inside and outside the stadium walls.”
Adjacent to the stadium is a 25-acre parcel owned by RK Midway, who are planning a vibrant mixed-use district with residential, retail, office, hospitality, and entertainment space. Minnesota United's new home — to be ready in 2018 — is expected to anchor this upcoming destination. Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
