Metrodome roof may rise this week

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Metrodome’s new roof could rise for the first time this week, as crews prepare to install the final fiberglass panel and seal the fabric.

Bill Lester, executive director of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, tells the Star Tribune that a test inflation is planned for this week, weather permitting.

He said if there are no problems, the roof will stay inflated as workers finish the final details of the job.

The contractors were given an Aug. 1 deadline, but Lester hesitated Monday to say they were ahead of schedule because there are so many smaller tasks that still need to be done.

Insurance is covering the $22.7 million cost of the project.

The Metrodome’s old roof was torn open by a blizzard last December.

Information from: Star Tribune, http://www.startribune.com

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