CHICAGO, July 27 (UPI) -- A new proposed alteration to Wrigley Field received a cautious reception from the Chicago Cubs and the owners of so-called rooftop bleacher clubs.
The proposal to move Wrigley's exterior wall in right field back 8 feet, and created a patio structure over Sheffield Ave., is the latest attempt at a compromise between the Cubs and the owners of the rooftops over plans to renovate the iconic stadium.
The Chicago Tribune said the new patio space offered the Cubs some new space for group sales and other events. In exchange, the team could also relocate a proposed 650-square-foot illuminated billboard and preserve the current view from the rooftop seats.
"We are willing to discuss alternatives to the pedestrian bridge that could deliver a solution that works for the neighborhood, Cubs and rooftops," a Cubs source told the newspaper. "This latest proposal offered by the rooftops and gaining support by some members of the community could be a path forward."
A representative of the rooftop owners said he was concerned about the team's final design of the patio, which the Tribune said was much larger than the patio envisioned by the rooftop people.
"There are some conversations taking place, but the devil will be in the details," said spokesman Ryan McLaughlin.
The Tribune said the patio would be a significant departure from the redevelopment plan approved last week by the Chicago City Council, and the idea of any patio was being opposed by neighborhood groups concerned about preserving the residential character of the area around Wrigley Field.
