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CHICAGO - The Chicago Fire has announced that one of the most anticipated phases in the construction process of its future, world-class stadium has begun: the installation of brick and the playing field. The nation's newest soccer and entertainment venue at 71st Street and Harlem Avenue in Bridgeview is showing more signs of life and fans can check out the latest images by visiting www.Chicago-Fire.com
. The stadium is expected to open in June 2006.
Overall, the stadium site grading is 85% complete, with the majority of landscaping and paving work on hold until early next year. The playing field installation process is on track for a December 5 completion. Installation of the glycol tubing for field heating and drainage layers is also underway, with the root zone and sod process to follow shortly.
Masonry work is approximately 25% complete and the brick facade of the east building is currently going up. Construction of the concessions and restrooms also continues.
Structural work (concrete and steel) is approximately 95% complete. The mezzanine concourse slab pours continue, and stair and ramp construction will start very soon. Waterproofing and roofing work will start this weekend. Once the waterproofing is installed and tested the topping slabs will be poured. Interior mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection work continues on most levels.
To view the latest photographs and live images of the stadium development in Bridgeview, please visit the stadium Web cam on the Fire's official website at www.Chicago-Fire.com
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The Fire has kicked off its public on-sale for 2006 Season Tickets at Bridgeview Stadium, giving fans the opportunity to choose their seats for the club's inaugural season in the Southland. Fans can pick out their seats by checking out the Bridgeview seating chart in the Ticket section at www.Chicago-Fire.com
. For more information on the public on-sale and the Bridgeview Stadium project, please call 1-888-MLS-FIRE or visit www.Chicago-Fire.com
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Fire Captain Chris Armas Sidelined; Doubful for Sunday's Match
The Fire has announced that Fire captain Chris Armas has been added to the injury report after suffering a left knee injury during last Friday's Eastern Conference Semifinals Series (Game 1) against D.C. United at Soldier Field. The 33-year-old midfielder and "Fire Original" is officially listed as doubtful for this weekend's pivotal Game 2, "do-or-die" match-up against the defending MLS Champion and the time frame for his recovery is undetermined. Armas is scheduled to receive further medical evaluations next week.
