Crews begin underground work around Wrigley Field

According to an update from the Chicago Cubs organization, the construction around Wrigley Field will be underway in the coming week. This work largely consists of infrastructure relocation jobs taken on by the City of Chicago.

“This week, portions of Waveland and Sheffield avenues will be closed as part of a land transfer from the City of Chicago. Soon, the City of Chicago will begin relocating underground water and sewer infrastructure in preparation for the renovation and expansion of Wrigley Field.”

The $500 million renovation plan, all of which will be privately financing by the Ricketts family, will include increased signage throughout the ballpark, more raised bleacher seating, updated player facilities and a completely overhauled concourse area for fans.

Starting Thursday and running through Sunday, a portion of Sheffield Ave. will be closed as the crews move lines. Next Tuesday, according to Erica Demarest of DNAInfo Chicago, one side of the street will be closed most days.

“The east side of the street will remain closed from 8 a.m. each day to two hours before the start of any Wrigley Field event. Personnel and equipment must be removed before games or events, the Cubs said in a statement.”

This is the first step of the renovation project. Some aspects, potentially including new video boards behind the bleachers, could be ready as early as Opening Day 2015.