Columbus Crew have become the latest MLS franchise to unveil renderings for a new stadium, which is set to feature a full wraparound roof, four distinct stands along with safe standing for the Nordecke supporters’ section, a brew hall that will also be open on non-matchdays, and the first supporters’ beer garden in the MLS.
The 20,000-capacity venue will sit in the heart of Columbus’ Arena District and the modern design links to the downtown skyline and the surrounding neighbourhoods, with a 40,000-square-foot outdoor plaza chief among the ample community spaces provided for year-round use. It’s certainly a far cry from the steel and concrete of the MAPFRE Stadium, the Crew’s current home since 1998.
Had you at ‘beer garden’ though, right? The design of the Downtown Stadium also adds two patios to the aforementioned beer garden to increase the viewing options on the supporters’ section at the North end. Get your beer, stand out on the patio and watch the game. Sounds good. Further to that, the west stands will boast suites with outdoor seating hanging over the seating area below, a feature that Columbus claims will be a first.
“Our goal is for Crew SC’s new downtown stadium to be among the top sports facilities in the nation,” said Columbus president and GM Tim Bezbatchenko in a statement. “We see our new home as becoming an integral part of Columbus’ downtown. Because of this, we are building a modern facility that is rooted in the culture created by our supporters in order to provide an experience that champions soccer in Columbus. The investments and input from The Haslam and Edwards Families have helped shape renderings for a stadium that will become a modern icon in our region and across the country.”
The plan is for the Downtown Stadium to be up and running for 2021, and you can reserve your space here.
