Tradition. Beauty. Charm.
"Beautiful Wrigley Field" is what fans and broadcasters called the Friendly Confines when it was just over 20 years old. After new bleachers, a manually operated scoreboard and an attractive brick wall with hand-planted ivy were installed in 1937, there was no more magnificent site in baseball. More than seven decades later, the Ricketts family sought to preserve the original beauty, charm and traditions of the ballpark, while enhancing the fan experience and ensuring the viability of the ballpark for future generations.
Here's how the completed 1060 Project complements the traditions and enhances the experience of the millions of fans who visit Wrigley Field every year.
Great ballpark tradition
The restoration and expansion ensures Wrigley Field remains the most treasured ballpark in America. Open concourses, expanded concession and dining options and better restroom facilities appeal to fans, reduce lines and ensure fans can enjoy more baseball from their seats. Replaced and renovated concrete and steel, new roofs and other structural repairs keep the Friendly Confines alive and thriving for another generation.
Great baseball tradition
From Tinker, Evers and Chance, to Phil Cavarretta, to the 2016 World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs have enjoyed a great tradition of baseball talent. Developing a winning tradition includes having best-in-class facilities for our players. The improvements for Wrigley Field included a better clubhouse, strength and conditioning facilities and training and practice areas. These upgraded player facilities put the Cubs in a better position for sustained on-field success.
Great neighborhood tradition
A renewed Wrigley Field helps maintain the neighborhood's great character and enhances the quality of life in the Lakeview community. Neighbors, visitors and fans have an opportunity to experience the excitement of Wrigley Field in an open, fun and entertaining atmosphere. These additions help support local businesses and keep Wrigley Field a thriving contributor to the local economy.
Great business tradition
Wrigley Field's neighborhood location supports local businesses. Every home game, Cubs fans shop, dine and stay in locally-owned bars, restaurants, hotels and stores in unprecedented numbers. A recent report indicated fans spend, on average, $104 per visit, bringing hundreds of thousands of dollars to local businesses during every home game. Making sure Wrigley Field continues to provide a great fan experience was vital to the thriving Lakeview neighborhood.