[MegaBass]

Wrigley Field renovation: Timeline of construction

The Chicago Cubs plan to split the organization’s $375 million overhaul of the stadium — another $200 million will go toward the surrounding area — into at least two phases, according to documents and drawings the team submitted to the city prior to its July hearing when it got approval for upgraded renovations. The documents show the team plans to finish most of its stadium-related upgrades by opening day 2017. Here are some of the highlights:

PHASE 1: 2014-2015



1. Proposed Sheffield and Waveland bleacher expansions, facade: A new concrete deck will support expanded bleachers. Also included is a concessions area partially enclosed by glass walls.
2. New playing field lighting: Two light poles added — one for left field and one for right.
3. Outfield brick wall and ivy: Repairing the outfield wall involves removing ivy, rebuilding the wall and replacing the ivy.
4. Bleacher entrance and outfield bleacher deck at the bleacher gate: Moves the bleacher gate approximately 6 feet toward Waveland and Sheffield.
5. Interior signage, upper level: New LED signs and boards added on the upper level of the infield seats.
Also:

Elevators (various areas): About 10 new elevators added to access the upper levels in left and right field, as well as other areas.

PHASE 2: 2015-2016



1. Western gate: New gate allows for entrances and exits.
2. Relocation of the bullpens: Bullpens would be moved under the outfield bleachers, with existing double doors in the outfield walls being replaced by chain-link mesh.
3. Seating in areas of current bullpens: Four new rows of seating will be added on each side of the field where the bullpens are currently.
4. Visitors’ clubhouse: A new clubhouse on the club level had originally been planned for second level.
5. New service entrance on Clark Street facade: A new freight entrance added near the Clark Street entrance.
6. Ticket windows and exhaust venting on Clark Street facade and Gate F
Also:

Ramps (various areas): Some would be replaced with stairs. There will not be any escalators. Cubs will also build a new upper-level concourse connecting new open-air concession areas between the dormers along the roofline.

PLANNED FOR BOTH PHASES

-Suites: Three “bunker suites” would be added below the stands near the Cubs dugout and down the third base line. They will not have views of the field but will lead to seating areas. A spokesman said the suites’ use hasn‘t been determined.
-Caretaker’s cottage: Renovating the historic building to replicate its original appearance.
-Outfield signage: Outfield signs, including the left field Jumbotron and the proposed right field LED board, will be installed beginning in Phase 1. Other signs will be installed as they are sold — and may be challenged legally by nearby rooftop clubs.
-Modifications to foundation system and steel: Many parts of the structure will be renovated and upgraded to meet Chicago building codes. Extra support and columns will be added throughout the park. The team says that will not add more obstructed views.