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$1.3 billion Giants/Jets Stadium goundbreaking
(by Michael Lamendola - September 05, 2007)
Politicians, stakeholders and players alike showed up for a massive press conference yesterday to commemorate the groundbreaking of the $1.3 billion joint Giants/Jets stadium.
With the old stadium on one side of the backdrop and construction crews working feverishly on the new stadium, owners of the Jets and Giants, as well as Governor Jon Corzine, among others touted the privately funded amenities the venue will display.
"This is a day of pride for New Jersey," said Corzine. "I only hope we can get it done on time and on budget."
By 2010, officials said both teams will take their dual home field to start the season. On the outside of the building, blue will illuminate the exterior for the Giants and green for the Jets thanks to a revolutionary aluminum louvered lighting system. Inside, 82,500 fans will meet the stadium’s capacity while before the game, they will walk through a 300,000 square foot ancillary zone designated for their tailgating needs. It will include food and beverage concessions, merchandise and pre-game entertainment.
One person not in attendance was Mayor James Cassella who disputed the state’s lax environmental regulations on the stadium’s construction and its property tax exempt status. East Rutherford is in negotiations to obtain PILOT payments from the stadium. The state will collect $5 million a year by way of rent.
To read more on the groundbreaking, how it will impact our area and what to expect in 2010 from the New Meadowlands Stadium, read the Sept. 12 edition of the South Bergenite.
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