In his first press conference as owner of the Chicago Cubs, Tom Ricketts says improvements to Wrigley Field are on the agenda, and even though he's not ready to talk specifics, it sounds like the Wrigley 2014 plan is in play.
In his first press conference as owner of the Chicago Cubs, Tom Ricketts says improvements to Wrigley Field are on the agenda — but he's not ready to talk specifics.
Improving Wrigley Field has been in the planning stages for many years. On the one hand, there's the Wrigley 2014 plan, first formulated by the Tribune Co. and architecture firm Populous (formerly HOK Sport), which 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.
In his comments today, Ricketts made mention of widening the concourses, improving the restrooms and concessions, and putting a building on the triangle-shaped land next to the ballpark. Sounds like he'll be implementing the core of the Wrigley 2014 plan — but all the details remain to be seen.
UPDATE: The Chicago Sun-Times has a long interview with Ricketts on the subject.
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