As Buffalo fans flag obstructed sightlines during the stadium’s debut, team officials pledge to refine the facility’s operations before the highly anticipated home opener this September.
After three years of construction, the new Highmark Stadium opened its doors to fans for the first time last Saturday for its Return of the Blue & Red scrimmage and practice. It also meant it was the first time that those who spent hundreds, if not thousands, on personal seat licenses (PSLs) got to sit in their new seats.
While most of the feedback on the new stadium was positive, there was a portion of Buffalo Bills fans who made their disappointment clear. The primary culprit? Obstructed seat views.
Posts on social media Saturday night showed certain seats having portions of the field cut from view or having things like guardrails in the way.
On Monday evening, the Bills issued a statement on the matter.
"Thank you to Bills Mafia for setting a new attendance record with more than 50,000 fans at the Return of the Blue & Red," the team said. "Saturday's practice was a great opportunity to test the new stadium.
"We are currently addressing internal and external feedback regarding the facility's operation following the first event. We'll utilize the next six weeks to refine any details as we prepare for the home opener on Thursday, September 17."
According to ESPN's sources, "less than 1% of PSL holders" complained of sightline problems. They add that some of the photos shown were of seats that aren't for sale for football games, but will be for other events such as concerts.
The Bills didn't provide any further details regarding what they will "refine" ahead of the regular-season opener against the Detroit Lions.
According to the team, however, 51,807 fans were in attendance for the first event that was limited to season ticket holders. A non-season ticket holder practice is scheduled for August 18, giving more fans the chance to see the new stadium from the inside.
As far as any non-season ticket holder getting into the building for a regular season game anytime soon, team Chief Operating Officer Pete Guelli said recently that it's going to be difficult for the near future.
