According to a report from the Tribune, the Cubs push to add more night games in the upcoming season could be in jeopardy. As part of their proposal to restore Wrigley Field, the Cubs would like more flexibility in scheduling games and events in order to generate additional revenue to help pay for the $300 million project to restore Wrigley Field.
The Tribune reported Wednesday afternoon that Ald. Tom Tunney said he would not introduce legislation during Wednesday’s City Council meeting.
Under the current ordinance the Cubs can schedule 27 night games and can add up to three more for nationally televised games. The Cubs have not said how many games they would like to add or how many Friday afternoon start times they would like to push back from 1:20pm to 3:05pm. The Cubs would like for the city to approve the additional night games as soon as possible so Major League Baseball can adjust the 2013 schedule.
The Cubs desire to add night games this season gives both sides a firm deadline and pressure to seal a deal.
According to the Tribune, “the team had asked Tunney to introduce a measure amending the neighborhood protection ordinance at Wednesday’s meeting. But the alderman wants the Cubs to address parking, traffic and security issues in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.”
As the Tribune pointed out, the lack of a proposal suggests that Ald. Tunney is in no rush to give the Cubs what they want.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Ald. Tunney have said they would like one comprehensive deal worked out and not just an ordinance to add more night games. The Mayor believes there “is an agreement to be had” and “it’s right there on the table.”
According to a report from DNAinfo.com, “a proposed park at School Street and Racine Avenue has become a bargaining chip for Ald. Tom Tunney to ensure the Chicago Cubs’ renovation plans financially benefit the neighborhood.”
The report states that Ald. Tunney expects the Cubs to pay for at least half of the $1.5 million proposed School Street Playlot, a project that the alderman has long advocated. The Cubs said they can help with the project as part of the restoration negotiations.
Full Report – Wrigley Field Renovations: Planned Playlot Becomes Bargaining Chip
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