69% of Minnesotans Agree on This Stadium Question at the Fair

Minnesota is home to some world-class sporting complexes. Both U.S. Bank Stadium and Target Field are often ranked among the best in the country, and both were built with the help of public funds.

The debate over whether taxpayer dollars should go toward these massive projects is never far from the surface. For many Minnesotans, it’s a hot-button issue fueled by emotion and personal beliefs, often leaving the actual numbers out of the conversation.

READ MORE: The 2025 Minnesota State Fair Attendance Numbers Are In

U.S. Bank Stadium Surprises Skeptics

When U.S. Bank Stadium was first announced, critics blasted the use of public money. The state and city contributed nearly half of the $1.1 billion price tag. But the outcome turned out better than many expected.

Thanks to revenue from electronic pull-tabs, the state retired $377 million in bond debt 23 years early, saving taxpayers $226 million in interest. That freed up money for other projects, while the stadium itself continues to draw more than 1 million visitors to downtown Minneapolis each year.

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Target Field’s Mixed Legacy

Target Field, meanwhile, came with lofty promises from Twins ownership of higher payrolls and a more competitive team. Those commitments never fully materialized. While the ballpark is one of the most scenic in Major League Baseball, attendance remains a challenge, and Hennepin County’s investment shows far less return than U.S. Bank Stadium.

Minnesotans Say “No” to Future Funding

Now, with new Timberwolves owners eyeing a new arena and upgrades needed at Grand Casino Arena, the debate is back. At the Minnesota State Fair, nearly 10,000 people were surveyed, and 69% said taxpayer money should not go toward stadiums. Only 19% supported the idea. That’s a strong signal to leaders and owners alike.