The San Francisco 49ers say they are looking into how to improve the fan experience at Levi’s Stadium, which has been criticized for its lack of shade.
Levi’s Stadium opened for the 49ers in 2014. In the time since, one of the issues that has been noted about the facility is that much of it seating is exposed to the heat during day games, particularly on the east side of the stadium.
Following their home opener on Sunday, the 49ers acknowledged the issues with the facility. While the club has instituted some measures to provide fans with items to help deal with the heat, it will be consulting with Populous to consider how to fix issues relating to the warm weather. There is nothing finalized at this point about what options the 49ers could pursue, and there are some circumstances about Levi’s Stadium surroundings that will have to be taken into consideration. More from The San Francisco Chronicle:
On Monday, team President Al Guido said the team is aware of the concerns and had tried some things through guest services to alleviate the discomfort, including free water, misters and sunscreen.
In terms of other options, Guido said, “There’s nothing definitive now.”
The 49ers will be working with Populous, a Kansas City, Mo.-based architecture firm.
The Dolphins put in a shade/shelter canopy last year, to the tune of about $78 million. Would the 49ers pay for such an expense for their fans?
Maybe, but there are complications. Levi’s is an enormously tall building, in the flight path of Mineta San Jose International Airport. A canopy would add to the height.
During Sunday’s game, the Chronicle’s Ann Killion tweeted a photo that showed a mostly empty east side of Levi’s Stadium at the beginning of the second half. The game time temperature for the 1:25 PT start against the Carolina Panthers was recorded at 87 degrees.
Image courtesy San Francisco 49ers.