Vikings Fan Reflects On U.S. Bank Stadium Construction
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- After more than two years of construction, U.S. Bank Stadium is just months away from completion.
Any person passing by downtown Minneapolis can take in the progress of the construction project, but few know the milestones and transformation better than Vikings fan David Gunderson.
There is a certain level of dedication needed to be a Vikings fan.
"There is no giving up on the Vikings," said Gunderson.
Even in the off-season Gunderson wears purple pride on his sleeve, but it's the steps he takes every weekend that show his true colors.
"It's an hour, hour and a half out of my day but it's worth it," Gunderson said.
For the last two years, Gunderson has spent nearly every Saturday morning outside the new Vikings stadium.
"I'll drop down here right after the light, the sun comes up because it's better viewing for photos," Gunderson said.
He walks the perimeter of the stadium, taking in the transformation of the previous seven days. With camera in hand, he captures the milestones in his more than 4,000 pictures.
"When the doors and the glass and the front got put on, I think that's what stood out the most," he said.
David's weekly tours are more than just a progress report; he also makes time to talk to the construction workers who are building the stadium.
"They're doing a great job. I just thank them while I'm walking around," Gunderson said.
This kind of team loyalty is not for the fair-weather fan. Gunderson visits even if snow, rain or cold is in the forecast.
"I care that much," he said.
While Gunderson may be a loyal fan, even he admits he's looking forward to the day he's no longer on the outside looking in.
"137, that's the count," Gunderson said.
The first major event at U.S. Bank Stadium is a soccer match in August. Later that month, the Vikings will host their first game on their new home field.
