Vikings Stadium Project is Weeks Ahead of Schedule

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings can pick up the keys to their new home six weeks early.

Mortenson Construction received Friday the certificate of occupancy for U.S. Bank Stadium from the city of Minneapolis, a month-and-a-half ahead of the project agreement.

The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, the public agency in charge of the $1.1 billion venue, will be able to move in ahead of schedule along with the Vikings and other stadium stakeholders.

Finishing touches will continue throughout June, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony set for July 22.

Mortenson senior vice president John Wood said he expects the certificate of substantial completion to be issued in coming weeks and all punch-list tasks to be finished before the first event, an Aug. 3 international soccer match.