WINNIPEG — Investors Group Field had its first big test as thousands poured into Winnipeg’s new stadium Sunday.
The One Heart worship service was attended by 15,000 people.
The fourth annual celebration gave Manitobans their first glimpse inside the $200-million state-of-the-art stadium at the University of Manitoba.
“It’s so different. Everything is improved,” said one person.
“It’s really awesome,” said another.
“It looks like it’s going to be a great place to watch football,” said Winnipeg Blue Bombers season-ticket holder David Naiduch.
But fans did have one complaint.
“Nothing’s wrong, except for the speakers. I can’t hear anything right now,” said one man.
But staff from the Bombers organization said the church group brought its own speakers for the event and ensured Global News the speakers at Investors Group Field have been tested and are good to go.
Beyond working out the kinks inside the stadium, Sunday’s service gave the football club its first chance to test parking plans.
While those who drove to the event said parking wasn’t a problem, others were concerned and said the real test will be on game days.
Thousands opted to take transit and avoid the search for a stall completely, while others merely chose to ignore the residential parking ban on streets around the stadium.
The city handed out 49 warning tickets to drivers.
There are still a few finishing touches left to be completed but the Bombers organization said the stadium will be completely ready for the first pre-season game on June 12.
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