When did the Minnesota Twins decide to build a new stadium, and why?
The Twins have talked about building a new stadium since 1995, but weren't able to secure funding through the Legislature until 2006.  Twins spokesman Kevin Smith says the intention is to escape from their present spot in "the corner of a football field" and to ensure that the Twins remain a Minnesota franchise for years to come.

What will be the biggest differences for Twins fans from the Metrodome?
The most noticeable difference from the Dome is going to be Target Field's roofless design, which the Twins hope will give fans more of a "classic" baseball experience than the former.  Target Field will also have larger seats, a capacity limit of 40,000 — some 15,000 fewer than the Dome — and one of the most advanced scoreboard systems in baseball.  The scoreboard will feature a video screen nine times larger than the Dome's.

How much will Target Field cost?

In total, Target Field will cost about $517 million. This includes $22 million tacked on to original projected spending due to extra upgrades and inside amenities such as additional bathrooms, weather shelters and more expensive building materials.  This brings the Twins' bill up to $167 million.  The rest of the cost is being covered by a 0.15 percent Hennepin County sales tax.

When will Target Field be completed?
Target Field will be ready for play on opening day 2010.

Will the stadium be used for purposes other than Twins games?
The Twins are toying with alternative uses for Target Field, but have yet to make any decisions.  A few ideas on the table, according to Smith: annual concerts, Big-Ten championships, other sporting events and on-site restaurants available for private booking

Target Field stadium tour - Part 1

Video by Scottie Tuska

 

Target Field stadium tour - Part 2

Video by Scottie Tuska

 

Target Field stadium tour - Part 3

Video by Scottie Tuska

 

Introduction | Twins: Target Field
Gophers: TCF Bank Stadium | Vikings: To be determined

Andy Mannix is a journalism and English student at the University of Minnesota. He has written for TIME.com, City Pages and the Minnesota Daily.