Santa Clara Living

Candlestick Park has been the home of the San Francisco 49ers since 1971, and housed the San Francisco Giants before that starting in 1960. Now, Santa Clara voters have decided it’s time for a change. The mysterious-sounding Measure J was passed on June 8, when city voters agreed to lease land to the 49ers Stadium Authority for the construction of a new 68,500-seat football stadium. The only thing the 49ers need now is the money to get the job done.Team owner John York says he made the decision to move with his family of players, and that they challenged themselves to think about it from the fans’ perspective. It’s true that the Candlestick stadium is far past its prime, but many fans still remember it for its iconic playoff matches. While the vote may seem sacrilegious to some 49ers fans, history is never made easily. The as-yet-unnamed stadium (expected to start construction in 2012) could turn out to be just as iconic as Candlestickand a lot more environmentally friendly. If everything goes according to plan, it will be the first stadium with a green roof and solar panels. The 49ers Stadium Authority is also currently exploring options with the Environmental Protection Agency, including nearby public transit (VTA, ACE, and Amtrak), recycled water for irrigation and plumbing, no CFC-based refrigerants (which contribute to ozone depletion), and permanent ventilation monitoring systems.Though not even named, you can already visit the stadium online at www.49ersnewstadium.com. Information is still sparse, but there are General FAQs up which should alleviate some fans’ concerns. “Will the team still be called the San Fancisco 49ers?” The answer: absolutely. Ticket prices and seating relocations for premium seating holders is still being determined, but there are plans to set up a marketing center in Santa Clara for the stadium where fans can get their first look at their favorite team’s new favorite home.