Cubs get approval for some Wrigley renovations

[June 29, 2013]  CHICAGO (AP) -- The Chicago Cubs have been cleared to move forward with their $500 million renovation of Wrigley Field -- except for the large video screen that the team's chairman says is an essential element.

Chairman Tom Ricketts says the outfield Jumbotron and the advertising revenue it would generate are needed to fund the remodeling of the historic ballpark without a public subsidy.

The owners of surrounding rooftop clubs that share some of their revenue with the Cubs object to that proposal, saying their views into the park would be blocked.

The Commission on Chicago Landmarks approved the team's overall plans Thursday, including for new signs. But it won't vote on the video screen or another, smaller outfield sign until July 11 to allow more time for a compromise.

[Associated Press]

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