Red Bulls' New Soccer Arena Breaks Ground In N.J.

Harrison, NJ (AHN) - Construction began Tuesday on a new facility for the New York Red Bulls professional soccer team.

The first steel beam in the stadium rose in the 25,000 seat area, that is expected to be finished by September 2009, depending on weather and other factors.

The venue for the MLS team will be called Red Bull Arena, a slight change from Red Bull Park, its initial name.

There will be just over 1,100 club seats, 30 luxury suites and three clubs and part of the field will be roof-covered.

The fact the project is getting underway at all is a victory for those involved, as it has faced critics regarding enviromental, design and legal issues in recent years.

Harrison Mayor Raymond McDonough said he believes the project will be a tax boon for the area and create employment opportunities.

Some critics, however, don't appreciate the team using a "New York" moniker, since the arena is located in the Garden State.