AT&T Stadium: A Monumental Timeline of Creation and Legacy

The gleaming behemoth known as AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, officially opened its doors on May 27, 2009. But that simple date belies a complex and fascinating construction journey. Let’s delve deeper into the timeline and the intricate details surrounding the building of this iconic stadium.

From Dream to Reality: The Genesis of AT&T Stadium

The story of AT&T Stadium isn’t just about dates and materials; it’s about vision. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, envisioned a stadium that would be more than just a place to play football. He wanted a destination, a marvel of engineering and design, a space that transcended the sport itself. This ambition fueled the ambitious project that would ultimately become AT&T Stadium.

The Early Stages: Planning and Approval

Before ground could be broken, significant planning and political maneuvering were necessary. The idea for a new stadium had been simmering for years, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that serious momentum began to build. Key to this was securing public funding and gaining approval from the city of Arlington, Texas.

• 2004: Initial discussions and feasibility studies commenced. Jerry Jones actively championed the project, highlighting the potential economic benefits for the city and the state.
• November 2, 2004: A pivotal moment arrived when Arlington voters approved a referendum to raise the city’s sales tax and hotel occupancy tax to partially fund the construction of the stadium. This public endorsement was crucial to moving the project forward.

Construction Commences: A Feat of Engineering

With funding secured and approvals in place, construction finally began. The sheer scale of the project required innovative engineering solutions and meticulous planning.

• May 2006: Groundbreaking officially took place, marking the beginning of a monumental construction effort.
• 2006-2009: The next three years were a whirlwind of activity, involving thousands of workers, countless tons of steel and concrete, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. The stadium’s defining features, including the retractable roof and the massive high-definition video screen, presented unique engineering challenges that were overcome through cutting-edge techniques.

Opening Day: A New Era Begins

The opening of AT&T Stadium was a momentous occasion, not just for Cowboys fans, but for the city of Arlington and the entire NFL.

• May 27, 2009: The stadium officially opened for tours and events, showcasing its grandeur to the world.
• June 6, 2009: The first official event was a concert by George Strait, marking the stadium’s foray into the world of entertainment beyond football.
• August 21, 2009: The Dallas Cowboys played their first pre-season game in the stadium against the Tennessee Titans, providing fans with their first taste of the new home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the construction and history of AT&T Stadium, shedding further light on this iconic landmark.

1. How much did AT&T Stadium cost to build?

The total cost of AT&T Stadium is estimated to be around $1.2 billion, making it one of the most expensive stadiums ever built. This figure includes not only the cost of construction materials and labor but also the cost of land acquisition and infrastructure improvements.

2. Who was the architect of AT&T Stadium?

The architectural firm responsible for the design of AT&T Stadium was HKS, Inc. They worked closely with Jerry Jones to bring his vision of a state-of-the-art, fan-centric stadium to life.

3. What is the seating capacity of AT&T Stadium?

The official seating capacity for Dallas Cowboys games is 80,000, but the stadium can be expanded to accommodate over 100,000 for special events such as concerts and major sporting events like the Super Bowl.

4. What are the dimensions of the video board in AT&T Stadium?

The iconic Mitsubishi Diamond Vision video board that hangs over the field is one of the largest high-definition screens in the world. It measures approximately 160 feet wide and 72 feet high.

5. How long did it take to build AT&T Stadium?

From groundbreaking to the official opening, the construction of AT&T Stadium took approximately three years, from May 2006 to May 2009.

6. What is unique about the roof of AT&T Stadium?

The roof of AT&T Stadium is a retractable roof consisting of two massive panels that can be opened or closed in about 12 minutes. This allows the stadium to be used in various weather conditions and creates a unique open-air atmosphere when the roof is open.

7. Was public funding used to build AT&T Stadium?

Yes, public funding was used in conjunction with private funding from the Dallas Cowboys. A portion of the stadium’s construction was financed through an increase in the city of Arlington’s sales tax and hotel occupancy tax, which was approved by voters in 2004.

8. Has AT&T Stadium hosted a Super Bowl?

Yes, AT&T Stadium hosted Super Bowl XLV on February 6, 2011, between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

9. What other major events have been held at AT&T Stadium?

Besides Cowboys games and Super Bowl XLV, AT&T Stadium has hosted a wide range of events, including:

• College football games (including the Cotton Bowl Classic)
• Concerts by major artists (e.g., George Strait, U2, Kenny Chesney)
• Boxing matches
• Monster Jam
• Wrestling events (WrestleMania 32)

10. How many suites are in AT&T Stadium?

AT&T Stadium boasts a staggering number of suites – over 300 luxury suites, offering premium amenities and unparalleled views of the field.

11. What is the architectural style of AT&T Stadium?

The architectural style can be described as modern and contemporary, with a focus on creating a grand and visually striking structure. Its design incorporates elements of steel, glass, and concrete to create a sleek and sophisticated look.

12. What impact has AT&T Stadium had on the city of Arlington?

AT&T Stadium has had a significant economic impact on the city of Arlington. It has attracted millions of visitors, generated substantial revenue for local businesses, and created numerous jobs. The stadium has also enhanced Arlington’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and entertainment. The area surrounding the stadium has seen significant development with new hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, further boosting the local economy. It’s safe to say that AT&T Stadium has become a central landmark and a major driving force in Arlington’s growth and prosperity.