Metrodome to have roof replaced

MINNEAPOLIS | The landlords of the Metrodome have voted unanimously to replace the stadium’s roof which collapsed in a December snowstorm.

The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission approved the resolution Thursday after engineers recommended the roof be replaced rather than repaired.

Replacing he roof raises the prospect of a lengthier process that could disrupt Minnesota Vikings preseason games. But the commission’s goal is to finish the job by Aug. 1.

Engineers wrote that full replacement of the 10-acre roof was the only way to guard against another deflation from defects they might not have found. Several panels ripped under the weight of the snow, but many others appeared undamaged.

The cost of a full repair wasn’t immediately available. Commission officials had said they expected insurance to cover most of it.