TCF Bank Stadium changes

Changes at TCF Bank Stadium to make it ready for Vikings games:

The field: The old turf was ripped up, and 38 miles of plastic pipe was put in that will distribute a heated Glycol solution from a heating plant in the stadium to keep the field warm on cold days. The new field got permanent markings for media lines, out of bounds lines, sideline hashes and bench areas. In the end zone, Minnesota is spelled out. Everything else will be painted. That means for Vikings games the interior of the letters in the end zone will be painted purple, then cleaned off to reveal Gophers colors for U games. The Vikings logo, along with pro hashes and numbers will be painted on for Vikings games, to be washed off and replaced by the college version — along with the block "M'' for Gophers games.

Bleachers: 1,720 seats were added via temporary bleachers erected on the West side of the stadium. That brings total capacity slightly more than 52,525.

Heat: Heaters are being installed in the ceiling of the loge boxes, and heaters and plumbing modifications are being added in restrooms.

Vending: About 130 extra points of sale have been installed around the stadium to sell beer as well as other concessions. Also, during Vikings games, vendors will sell beer in the stands.

Points of entry: Increased from six gates to nine to get people in faster through the heightened security required at NFL games.

Technology: A replay booth had to be installed. Also, a still-shot camera system was installed for the coaching staffs. And a distributed antenna system was installed to enhance fans' ability to access 4G, 3G and LTE technology.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD