Some enhancements are on the way at BB&T Ballpark, as the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) are committing to a series of improvements before the 2017 season.
BB&T Ballpark has been regarded as a fine venue since for Minor League Baseball it opened in 2014. While the Uptown Charlotte ballpark has received its fair share of praise and attracted crowds in high numbers over the last three seasons, the Knights are looking forward to some changes that will be in place by Opening Day.
Amounting to a $400,000 investment in the facility, the upgrades include a new audio system, improvements to the ballpark’s kid’s area, and new shade structures for areas in left field and right field.
That mix amounts a series of upgrades that are definitely aimed at the fan experience, and these amenities could benefit the ballpark going forward. The ballpark’s hospitality offerings also figured to be spruced up, as the addition of new canopies is one of the tweaks that the Knights are making to the group outing experience. More from The Charlotte Business Journal:
Changes to group seating areas include a larger covered area in left field that will allow as many as 250 fans to watch games with shade and protective covering, an increase of 150 from 2016. A 40-by-40 tent is being added along the right-field line where a mix-and-mingle open party area is located. Group sales, which also include several suites and other porches and patios scattered throughout the ballpark, account for 38% of annual revenue, including accompanying food and drink sales, according to the team.
Other changes in recent months include a change in concessionaires. Last fall, the Knights hired Professional Sports Catering, a subsidiary of Chicago-based Levy Restaurants, to replace Spectra, formerly known as Ovations Food Services. Levy is owned by Charlotte-based Compass Group North America, a $16 billion company.
BB&T Ballpark will begin its fourth season of minor league action on April 6, when the Knights host the Norfolk Tides.