The city of San Diego released a three-minute video Tuesday showing a more detailed design for a new stadium in Mission Valley, just one day before the National Football League hosts a local public forum.
Kansas City-based Populous incorporated unique San Diego elements into its design, such as a shimmering facade that will give off an ocean wavelike effect. The seating areas would be split into valleys and mesas, and set up as neighborhoods to provide distinct fan experiences.
The video, narrated by Hall of Fame sports announcer and La Jolla resident Dick Enberg, shows off various aspects of San Diego for the first minute before the stadium design proposal is revealed.
“With a design that reflects the characteristics people love about San Diego, this new stadium will provide a fan experience unlike any other in the NFL,” said Mayor Kevin Faulconer.
“The Chargers belong in San Diego, and this design captures the spirit of the city they have called home for more than 50 years,” Faulconer said. “It embraces San Diego’s beautiful year-round weather, coastal lifestyle and reputation as an innovation leader to create an iconic Southern California venue that can host games, events and Super Bowls for generations to come.”
Mark Fabiani, special counsel for the NFL’s Chargers, called the presentation an “all-fluff-and-no-substance video” that wastes more taxpayer money.
The Chargers owners have been asking for a replacement for aging Qualcomm Stadium for 15 years, and proposed to build their own facility in the Los Angeles suburb of Carson, in concert with the Oakland Raiders.
The St. Louis Rams have also expressed interest in moving to Los Angeles. NFL team owners are expected to decide which team, or teams, will move late this year or early next year.
The public forum is scheduled for Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway. The event is free, but fans who want to attend are asked to pre-register online at www.nfl.com/sdhearing.
