Work on Las Vegas’s upcoming Allegiant Stadium reached a milestone Monday, when a topping out ceremony took place at the facility’s construction site.
Set to open in 2020 for the relocating Oakland Raiders and UNLV football, the upcoming $1.9 billion stadium is currently being built at a site west of Mandalay Bay. Allegiant Stadium is on track to reach its targeted completion date, with Monday’s topping out ceremony–an event that is traditionally held when the last steel beam is put into place on a structure–marking the latest sign of progress.
The event generated plenty of fanfare, with officials from the Raiders, construction workers, and Las Vegas dignitaries among those on hand for the ceremony. More from the Las Vegas Sun:
The topping-out ceremony was a who’s who of Las Vegas dignitaries and business leaders, including Raiders owner Mark Davis, Allegiant executives and lawmakers.
Davis said the Raiders plan to earn a loyal following, much as the Vegas Golden Knights have with hockey fans. “We’re going to earn their love, and they’re going to understand that the Raiders are part of this community,” he said.
[Andy] Nelson doesn’t need any convincing. A year from now, he’ll be rooting for his team in his city in a stadium he helped build.
“What more could you ask for?” Nelson said. “I can’t wait.”
Along with hosting the Raiders and UNLV, Allegiant Stadium is expected to be a draw for major events. Within college football circles, its appeal is already evident, as it will be the new home of the Las Vegas Bowl and was recently announced as the host of the Pac-12 Championship Game in 2020 and 2021. It should also land plenty of large-scale, non-football events, including concerts.
Naming rights for the facility were purchased by Las Vegas-based airline Allegiant, part of a partnership with the Raiders that was announced on Monday.
Rendering courtesy Allegiant Stadium.
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