New proposals in the works for Wrigley renovations
CHICAGO -- More changes appear to be forthcoming to the Wrigley Field renovation project, which was approved in July but has yet to break ground.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel introduced a number of proposals for the project at Wednesday's City Council meeting, including slight scheduling changes and updates to the hotel that will be built across Clark Street.
The Cubs proposed moving Wrigley Field's exterior left- and right-field walls back in order to help minimize the impact of the left-field videoboard and right-field sign on the views from the neighboring rooftops.
The project continues to sit at a standstill as the Cubs wait to begin construction until they receive an agreement from rooftop owners that they will not sue over blocked views.
Under the new proposals, the Cubs would get city land to push back the exterior of the right- and left-field walls by seven and 16 feet, respectively. The Cubs would not have to pay for the land, with Emanuel instead accepting $4.75 million in previously pledged neighborhood investments.
Although the Cubs believe the moving of the walls will lessen the impact the videoboard and right-field sign will have on views from the rooftops, rooftop owner spokesman Ryan McLaughlin said his group disagrees and will enforce its revenue-sharing contract with the Cubs if the signs compromise its views.
Emanuel's proposed ordinances include allowing the Cubs flexibility with the number of home night games. The Cubs and the city initially agreed that up to 46 night games could be played, but Emanuel instead proposed 43 -- 35 of which would be scheduled prior to the season, with the other eight available to be switched for national TV broadcasts. Of those eight, up to three can be played on a Saturday.
Emanuel's proposal also would negate the Cubs needing city approval to change game times. Emanuel also asked that the Cubs be able to put up previously approved signage without further issue.
The Cubs have already agreed to eliminate the pedestrian bridge over Clark Street connecting the park and hotel. Additionally, it has been proposed that the hotel's entrance be moved from Patterson Avenue to Clark Street, with the hotel balcony at Clark and Patterson getting nixed.
Alderman Tom Tunney of the 44th Ward said he needed time to look over the latest changes.