The Vikings and the state of Minnesota on Friday "took control of the new U.S. Bank Stadium from Mortenson Construction," receiving an "oversized, commemorative black key" with the Minneapolis skyline carved out and the date engraved, according to Rochelle Olson of the Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE. The ceremony "marked what is officially referred to in the construction industry as 'substantial completion.'" The moment "came 45 days ahead of deadline and 30 months after construction began." The 270-foot-high glass and steel building "will seat 66,200 fans and play host" to Super Bowl LII in '18. The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) "takes responsibility for operating costs, such as the water, electric and 24-hour security bills." MSFA, Mortenson and the Vikings will "continue to work through inspections and to identify items that must be fixed or adjusted." The formal ribbon-cutting "will take place July 22 with a free public open house on the two following days," and the MSFA "will move in much sooner." MSFA Chair Michele Kelm-Helgen said that its "next monthly meeting, July 15, will be in the new offices" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 6/18).
