Stadium designers asked to consider environmental concerns

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking designers of the new Vikings stadium to think about accommodating an unusual category of birds passing through downtown Minneapolis.

The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority released the scoping document for the study of the environmental effect of a new NFL stadium in downtown Minneapolis includes a suggestion by a DNR ecologist that the design of the stadium reflect concern for fatal bird collisions. Large expanses of glass and artificial lighting can increase that risk, the American Bird Conservancy said.

Several renderings offered by Dallas-based HKS architects in their winning bid to design the stadium include substantial glass features, including transparent roof panels and surfaces. The environmental impact study will look at both fixed and retractable roof designs, as well as the potential closure of 5th Street.

The stadium had a public meeting Oct. 23 to solicit concerns about the environmental impact of the new stadium, including noise, traffic as well as air and water quality. The report is scheduled to be completed in July.

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