Ballpark Digest is previewing what every MLB team is doing to begin the season, both on and off the field, as the 2018 campaign is underway. Up next: the Colorado Rockies and Coors Field.
Headlined by a new videoboard, the Colorado Rockies are rolling out a series of improvements to the fan experience at Coors Field. The new videoboard should prove to be a large and striking presence at the ballpark, but it is not the only change on tap for 2018, as Coors Field is also debuting renovations to existing areas, new food menu items, and improvements to the home clubhouse.
While several teams around the majors addressed their video display technology over the offseason, it could be argued that no club undertook a project as unique as what the Rockies did at Coors Field. In partnership with Daktronics, the Rockies installed a new videoboard that measures at 8,369 square feet, making it 258% larger than the ballpark’s former display. Along with its size, the new videoboard will stand out for its design, as the top of the display features a cutout that is reminiscent of the team’s mountain logo.
The Rockies did not stop there in their audio/video production improvements, as the club also upgraded the technology in the control room to HD1080P. In addition, the team completed the next phase of speaker improvements, focusing on the ballpark’s lower bowl.
Those are not the only changes at Coors Field for 2018, as fans should look for a few other new elements. Located on the first level of the Rooftop, the Coors Light Silver Bullet Bar is the result of a rebrand of what was previously known as The Tavern Ballpark. It will offer a mix of options that includes over 25 local and national craft beers.
A few other spaces within Coors Field have been renovated in advance of the 2018 season. The bar on the third base side of the club level has been completely overhauled, now featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and additional seating. To accomplish this project, the Rockies expanded the area onto a former outdoor deck and completely enclosed the space. Meanwhile, the Rockies are also unveiling a renovated and rebranded INFINITI Club. Located behind home plate, the field-level premium seating area offers several amenities, including padded seats, seat-side service, and an indoor bar and restaurant. The INFINITI Club is exclusive to club specific season ticket holders and guests.
Coors Field’s concessions will also have new offerings this year, with the Rockies and Aramark rolling out some unique menu items. One of those is the Rocky Mountain Po’boy. Named one of our top new food items for 2018, the Rocky Mountain Po’boy features Rocky Mountain oysters, and is topped with a mix that includes garlic slaw, guacamole, green chili ranch, pico de gallo and cotija cheese.
Also new for 2018 is the Mile High Mac-N-Cheese, a green chili mac-n-cheese topped with crumbled chorizo and pico de gallo. Coors Field is included in Aramark’s initiative to bring taco trios to ballparks this year, as it will feature the Chicken & Purple Slaw Taco Trio. For desert, fans will have a new option in Rockies Fritters, featuring fried purple berry fritters smothered in a sweet rum glaze and dotted with purple and silver pearls.
Not all of the changes at Coors Field relate to the fan experience this year, as the Rockies have completed a portion of one notable behind-the-scenes project. The club is debuting some features in its home clubhouse, including a new quiet room. Additional clubhouse improvements will take place down the road.
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