Today marks another critical milestone in the construction of the new Twins Ballpark in downtown Minneapolis.

Beginning at 7 am this morning, the M.A. Mortenson crew will commence the project?s first concrete slab pour as crews set the floor of the ballpark?s mezzanine level (the mezzanine level is located between the service level and the main concourse and houses a variety of operational functions ? mainly the ballpark?s concession headquarters). Despite what has been a harsh start to winter, it?s been amazing to see the ballpark begin to take shape. Today?s initial pour will be followed by the first pour of the main concourse level in early January.

Twins Ballpark Notebook:

The Twins Ballpark project team traveled to Washington, DC last week in order to review the status of Nationals Park which is scheduled to open in April. While much work remains on interior spaces, the ballpark seating bowl is taking shape, the playing field has been installed and the main scoreboard is in place. While much has been made of the Twins Ballpark?s stone exterior, it?s interesting to see the ?federal building?-like exterior of DC?s new stadium ?

Speaking of scoreboards, the Twins project team recently made a trip to Pittsburgh to review Daktronics latest HD16 video board technology. Daktronics is the Brookings, SD company which is expected to compete for the scoreboard elements in the Twins Ballpark ?

As of last week the Mortenson crews had driven more than 1,300 of the 2,200 piles needed for the ballpark project ? As of today, the Twins have secured commitments for 37 of the 55 private suites within the ballpark ?

Current season ticket holders have been sent postcards on which they can identify their interest in securing premium seating (Champion?s Club or Legend?s Club seats) in the new ballpark. Those accounts not returning their postcards should do so quickly as club seating assignments will begin shortly after the first of the year. More updates to come in the near future.

Happy Holidays from all of us with the Minnesota Twins. Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

President, Minnesota Twins