Pick delayed for Vikings stadium builder

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By Brian Johnson
Dolan Media Newswires

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority wants more time to think over its decision on selecting a builder for the new Minnesota Vikings stadium.

The authority was expected to announce a builder at its Friday meeting, but a spokeswoman for the authority said Thursday morning that the new plan is to “update” the construction manager selection process and hold off on a decision.

“Because it is such a huge undertaking, we are trying to make sure we have everything we need out of a construction manager before we make a decision,” said Jenn Hathaway, the authority’s director of communications.

Hathaway said it hasn’t been decided when a builder will be selected.

“We are continuing to have discussion with candidates and with the Vikings,” she said. “We should know more next week.”

After Friday’s meeting, the next meeting of the authority is scheduled for March 8, but the authority could call a special meeting before that time to announce a construction manager selection.

In January, Golden Valley-based Mortenson Construction, Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Hunt Construction, and the U.S. office of Skanska AB, a Swedish firm, submitted bids to perform construction manager duties for the stadium.

Dallas-based HKS is the design firm. Brookfield, Wis.-based Hammes Co. is providing owner’s representative services. The project is scheduled to break ground on or about Oct. 1 and wrap up in time for the 2016 football season.