With the MLS season about to begin, FC Dallas is preparing to roll out some amenities from the ongoing Toyota Stadium renovation.
The facility is undergoing $39 million in renovations that will lead to several new amenities. One of the main components of the project is the new National Soccer Hall of Fame, which our own Jarah Wright previewed in October.
The Hall of Fame is not expected to open until next year, and construction on several other parts of the project will continue over the next several months. However, FC Dallas is prepared to a launch a few features this season. Toyota Stadium is receiving audio and video upgrades, along with improved concessions and club spaces. More from The Dallas Morning News:
Already in place are the twin 13mm high-definition video boards and a new audio system. The timing fits nicely with Major League Soccer’s plans to offer video replay later this season.
Construction crews are still finishing out the space for the new Winners Club by WinStar World Casino and Resort. The redesign was a last-minute but much-needed add to the renovation project, Hunt said.
Fans won’t recognize what used to be known as the River Club. The once-too-dark space is now light and airy. The bar is moved to the back, away from the field, a VIP concession stand — gyros anyone? — sits on the right with draft beers on tap. The Winners Club will also host social media events and player autograph sessions.
Just like the River Club, the Winners Club will be open to club seat holders and suite members during the first half of the game. But after halftime, it will open its doors to all fans.
“It increases the fan experience in my book by a thousand percent,” [FC Dallas president Dan] Hunt said.
Later this year, the organization hopes to complete many of the projects on the renovated south end, which will soon include a team store, field-level tunnel entrances, locker rooms, club seating, and more. The goal is to wrap up those projects by December, when Toyota Stadium will host the NCAA FCS Championship.
For more on the project, check out our preview from October.