Chicago Alderman Wants Cubs To Get City's OK Before Installing New Signs At Wrigley

A landmark review panel gave the Cubs permission Thursday to "install an advertising sign with game information above the wall in the ballpark’s right-field bleachers," according to David Roeder of the CHICAGO SUN-TIMES. But the Cubs "may need to jump through more hoops before making their latest change" to Wrigley Field. Chicago Ald. Tom Tunney said that he is "backing an ordinance that would force the Cubs to get City Council approval before installing the sign." Tunney, whose ward includes Wrigley Field, said that the ordinance "would apply to any electronic sign of at least 100 square feet." While he "conditionally backs the sign, he wants the Cubs and city officials to agree on overall rules for future advertising within the park." The sign, about 7-by-75 feet, "would be part of the Budweiser Bleachers near the right-field corner." Behind it "would be a patio and seating area that would replace existing rows of bleachers." The Cubs already have "removed the old seats and hope to have the sign in place by Opening Day, April 5" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 2/3).

SAME PARK, NEW EXPERIENCE: ESPN CHICAGO's Jon Greenberg noted the Cubs are "inviting bigger-spending fans to 'experience exclusivity'" at Wrigley Field. While they "haven’t formally announced the pricing of the new exclusive aspects of the Wrigley Field experience, the Cubs have unveiled a pricing scale for the new right field patio, along with a new ultra-premium suite, on their website." The new Budweiser patio is being marketed as "the Wrigleyville rooftop experience inside the ballpark," and the Cubs are "charging rooftop-like prices." There are "four pricing tiers for the section: $125 a ticket (silver), $150 (gold), $190 (platinum) and $250 (marquee). But as of "now, fans can’t buy solo tickets." This is "aimed solely at large groups, from bachelor parties to corporate outings." Tickets can be purchased "in blocks of 50, 100 or 150 and include food and drinks." Another "new addition to the offerings is the 'Legends Suite.'" Located on the "first base side of the suites level, the suite offers 14 tickets, an 'upgraded gourmet menu,' a pregame tour and most importantly, the company of a former Cub, who will autograph a 'unique gift'" (ESPNCHICAGO.com, 2/2).