When the first shovels were put into the ground in Orchard Park, marking the beginning of construction of a new Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, Bills Mafia rejoiced.

Though the stadium wasn't expected to be completed until 2026, fans did not care. The franchise's future was finally set in stone after years of uncertainty, and countless rumors about the team being moved out of town.

In a recent appearance on Axios Fireside Chat, Kathy Hochul, the 57th Governor of New York, shared details about the process of keeping the Bills in Buffalo. In that discussion, Hochul shared that she competed against five other cities, all of whom were trying to lure the Bills away from their current home in Western New York.

Check out this video for more context:

Governor Hochul also shared details about the current cost of the stadium project. Originally, "New" Highmark Stadium was supposed to cost $1.4 billion to complete, with New York state contributing $650 million of state funding to the project.

The cost of the stadium project has risen, with Governor Hochul stating the cost has now jumped above $2 billion. No insight was given as to whether New York will be contributing more money to the project, or not.

READ MORE: Incredible, New VIDEO Of Stadium Construction In Buffalo, NY

The new stadium is expected to seat 62,000 fans, and will open in-time for the 2026 NFL season. Buffalo's current home, Highmark Stadium, is expected to be demolished after the Bills move into their new home.

You can see Governor Hochul's full appearance on Axios Fireside Chat here:

Bills' Stadium is COVERED in Snow, and Buffalo Fans Don't Care

The seats and aisles of Highmark Stadium are still PACKED with snow, and based on these photos, Buffalo Bills' fans couldn't care less.

Gallery Credit: Dan Bahl

Bills' Stadium is COVERED in Snow, and Buffalo Fans Don't Care

The seats and aisles of Highmark Stadium are still PACKED with snow, and based on these photos, Buffalo Bills' fans couldn't care less.

Gallery Credit: Dan Bahl