Minnesota United FC Breaks Ground On New Stadium

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Construction officially begins Monday afternoon on the state's newest sports stadium.

The Minnesota United FC will break ground on its new facility in St. Paul's Midway neighborhood.

The team will build the privately funded, $150 million stadium as the Loons prepare to enter Major League Soccer, the country's top professional league for the sport.

In October 2015, the team announced its plan to build on the ten-acre lot near Interstate 94 and Snelling Avenue. Months before that, Minnesota United ownership was in talks to build the stadium in Minneapolis but the plans never materialized.

The 20,000-seat facility will be sustainably designed to minimize impact to the environment and energy use. It will feature a canopy to protect fans and players from the elements, a retail store, club seating and much more.

Up until now, the team hasn't released much information on the construction details.

Minnesota United ownership has been in negotiations with RK Midway, the owner of the neighboring property, to figure out how to handle the area.

According to the team's website, RK Midway has announced redevelopment plans that take advantage of the stadium which include retail office and entertainment space.

Monday's news conference is expected to detail more information on the construction timeline and development plans.

The stadium is schedule for completion sometime in 2018. Next season, the United will play at TCF Bank stadium.