Event kicks off improvements to iconic stadium

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The construction phase for The New Arrowhead Stadium officially began today with a ceremonial groundbreaking on the front lawn outside the Kansas City Chiefs administrative offices.

With shovels in hand, members of the Hunt Family, Sen. Kit Bond, Jackson County legislators, representatives from the Jackson County Sports Authority, local and state officials, Kansas City Chiefs’ team executives and Head Coach Herm Edwards, and principals of the project’s design and construction teams gathered inside the Truman Sports Complex to break ground on a new and improved Home of the Chiefs.

The $250 million stadium improvement project, approved by Jackson County voters in 2006, received contributions from the Hunt Family totaling $125 million to ensure the New Arrowhead follows the vision of team founder, the late Lamar Hunt.

“Our family is proud that Arrowhead is still regarded as one of the most magnificent structures in pro sports and an icon in the National Football League,” Chiefs’ Chairman of the Board Clark Hunt said. “To Chiefs fans, Arrowhead is an experience. The New Arrowhead will not only help enhance that experience, it represents our family’s commitment to my father’s vision, and we’ll honor his legacy by being good stewards to the taxpayers of Jackson County.”

The new stadium is designed to add even more excitement and emotion to the legendary game day atmosphere, while maintaining Arrowhead’s swooping sculptural form. The improvements will help ensure that it remains among the finest and most respected NFL stadiums, while continuing to be one of the loudest and most feared places to play in the league.

“Our goal is to make sure Kansas City remains a premier sports venue on a national level,” Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders said. “The New Arrowhead will continue to be a great source of civic pride, which people from around the country will point to as a destination stadium in Kansas City and Jackson County.”

The New Arrowhead will give fans a greater variety of experiences beyond the on-field action. Stadium improvements include concourses that will be nearly doubled in size, allowing fans to get to their seats – and back to the action on the field – in less time; more restrooms; added provisions for disabled patrons; a greater variety of food and beverages to enjoy; a broad range of bars, concessions and seating areas within the concourses; and club lounge spaces to enjoy with family and friends.

Other additions will feature an upgraded sound system, new video board displays - including a 360-degree ribbon board around the lower fascia of the stadium - a new press box, improved and expanded suites, and a new group seating area - the Horizon Level. The improvements also call for a Chiefs’ Hall of Fame – The Hall of Honor - and an expanded team store, which will be open year-round.

Related:
The New Arrowhead

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