For the Chicago Cubs, next year is here, at least in the literal sense. They play the Cincinnati Reds on Monday for their home opener, the first game at Wrigley Field in a promising 2016 season.
The game also marks the progression of the 1060 Project. Wrigley is in the process of modernization, and the latest update is that the Cubs’ new clubhouse is ready and the legendary marquee sign has been installed out front.
Wrigley’s old clubhouse, one of the worst in the majors, was 11,000 sf, a size that was acceptable generations ago but woefully small compared to the high tech, posh living rooms around the league. According to the Chicago Tribune, the new clubhouse is 30,000 sf. The space accommodates a larger locker room, a strength and conditioning center, training rooms, offices, and a lounge. The circular locker room has wood-paneled stalls centered around a central meeting area.
Home sweet(er) home! #LetsGohttps://t.co/A4qZxRGcZN
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) April 11, 2016
To find the space, the clubhouse was moved from the area underneath the seats behind the dugout to under an old parking lot on the west side of the ballpark. The old locker room will be turned into a batting cage. An open-air plaza will be built above the clubhouse.
Additionally, the signature red Wrigley Field marquee has been re-installed outside of the main entrance. EarthCam produced a time-lapsed video of crews putting it back together.
The Cubs are nowhere near done with the Wrigley overhaul. New clubs, decks, and outdoor concourses are being constructed, and a new umpire dressing room, visitors’ clubhouse, and press box are all in the works.
An outside development, including a six-story office building, 172-room hotel, open air plaza, and a bunch of commercial development spaces (restaurants, retail shops, an ice rink) will be built over the next few years.
The renovations started last year, when the Cubs revamped their outfield bleachers and erected two massive video boards.
Related Stories
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Jul 20, 2016
San Diego’s waterfront redevelopment would go beyond a mere ‘project’
Its developers envision a thriving business, education, and entertainment district, highlighted by a huge observation tower and aquarium.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Jul 20, 2016
Chicago Cubs unveil plans for premier fan club underneath box seats at Wrigley Field
As part of the baseball team’s larger stadium renovation project, the club will offer exclusive food, drinks, and seating.
Events Facilities | Jul 19, 2016
Houston architect offers novel idea for Astrodome renovation
Current plans for the Astrodome’s renovation turn the site into an indoor park and events space, but a Houston architect is questioning if that is the best use of the space
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Jul 18, 2016
Turner and AECOM will build the Los Angeles Rams’ new multi-billion dollar stadium project
The 70,000-seat stadium will be ready by the 2019 NFL season. The surrounding mixed-use development includes space for retail, hotels, and public parks.
Building Tech | Jul 14, 2016
Delegates attending political conventions shouldn’t need to ask ‘Can you hear me now?’
Each venue is equipped with DAS technology that extends the building’s wireless coverage.
Contractors | Jul 4, 2016
A new report links infrastructure investment to commercial real estate expansion
Competitiveness and economic development are at stake for cities, says Transwestern.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Jun 9, 2016
Swimming may be returning to Melbourne’s polluted Yarra River… kind of
The addition of a pool to the Yarra may help improve people’s perception of the river and act as the impetus to an increase in support for improving its water quality.
Building Team Awards | May 23, 2016
'Greenest ballpark' proves a winner for St. Paul Saints
Solar arrays, a public art courtyard, and a picnic-friendly “park within a park" make the 7,210-seat CHS Field the first ballpark to meet Minnesota sustainable building standards.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | May 20, 2016
Texas Rangers announce plans for $1 billion retractable roof ballpark
The new stadium will replace Globe Life Park, which is only 22 years old.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | May 19, 2016
Audacy brings wireless lighting controls to Wrigley Field’s new clubhouse
The Audacy system uses a combination of motion sensors, luminaire controllers, light sensors, and switches that are all connected and coordinated by Gateways.
