After spending 30 years at the
multipurpose Three Rivers Stadium, the Pittsburgh Steelers now
play at one of the superior NFL stadiums. Like many other teams
in the 1990’s, the Steelers lobbied and received public
funding to build a new stadium. The Steelers had played at Three
Rivers Stadium along with the Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB) for more
than thirty years. Construction of new stadiums for both the
Steelers and the Pirates began in 1999. Both stadiums were constructed
on opposite ends of Three Rivers Stadium, along the Ohio River.
As part of a 20 year partnership with the Heinz Company, the
Steelers new stadium was named Heinz Field.
Opening
day for the Steelers at Heinz Field came on October 7, 2001.
Heinz Field is in the shape of a horseshoe, with the south
end open. Two, three tiered grandstands are located on both
sides of the field. The lower deck circles around the entire
field. A section of bleacher seats are located on a second
deck on the north side of Heinz Field. The stadium has a capacity
of 64,450 which includes 7,000 club seats and 120 luxury suites.
Behind the seats on the south end is a massive 48 ft. by 27
ft. scoreboard. Heinz Field has many amenities including several
entertainment areas, team stores, restaurants, and a Steelers
Hall of Fame. Because of its horseshoe shape, fans attending
games at Heinz Field receive excellent views of the Pittsburgh
skyline.