With the Ricketts family poised to finally purchase the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field, many are hoping the Wrigley 2014 renovation plan will be resurrected.
With the Ricketts family poised to finally purchase the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field, many are hoping the Wrigley 2014 renovation plan will be resurrected.
The plan, first formulated by the Tribune Co. and architecture firm Populous (formerly HOK Sport), calls for an updating of Wrigley Field while leaving the basic character of the historic ballpark intact. Much of the work would focus on a renovated suite level, while all fans would have access to improved concourses, concessions and restrooms. In addition, some of the structural issues with the ballpark would be addressed.
At one time it was priced at $250 million; that number surely needs to be updated.
The plan also calls for a five-story triangular structure next to the ballpark, containing team offices, retail, parking and group space.
We did some asking around yesterday after news surfaced about the impending sale of the team and the ballpark, and the status of Wrigley 2014 is, well, as clear as mud. Lead owner Tom Ricketts and other family members are very aware of the plans and have reviewed the renderings and plans, but they've made no commitment to the renovations — nor has anyone asked them to make a commitment. After the sale closes, we expect some move by city and neighborhood leaders for a comment on the plans if Ricketts makes no statement after closing on the deal, but until then the Wrigley 2014 plans will remain on the drawing boards. Financially, Wrigley Field is a cash cow, and with many smaller renovations performed over the past few years that addressed structural problems, there's no immediate need to dive into remodeling.
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