NEWSLETTER
A minor, but notable update to the physical aspects of the Wrigley Field renovation plan: the Chicago Tribune reports that the Cubs would like to add another gate to Wrigley, on the west side of the stadium next to the proposed plaza.
The idea would be to connect the plaza – which is, itself, connected by way of a bridge over Clark to the proposed hotel – to the ballpark, directly. Folks could then enter and exit Wrigley by way of the plaza, which would theoretically increase fan interaction with the variety amenities/advertisements located there. Given the purposes and location of the plaza, it makes a lot of sense.
An additional gate could also improve post-game-get-the-hell-out-of-there congestion. It can take a while to exit Wrigley after a game as it is, given that there are just four gates presently.
The Tribune’s report includes sketches of the plaza with the gate adjoining, and notes on the timing of its approval. Because it would affect the exterior walls at Wrigley, which are landmarked, you would assume that any changes like this would have to be approved by the Landmarks Commission. The new gate does not appear in the original framework for the renovation, so I’m not sure if this is a new idea, or if the Cubs never planned to include it in that framework.
In any event, it’s a minor, but cool, change, and one that will probably face hurdles for approval, because, you know.
