A Chicago Tribune article reveals some of the behind-the-scenes moves made by the Chicago Cubs to control more of the commercial interests in a neighborhood already famously devoted to its team.
According to an article by Jared S. Hopkins and Ameet Sachdev, Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts "has taken the Boston blueprint far beyond the historic stadium — past Wrigley's bricks and ivy, in fact, and into the nearby streets where the Cubs want to control more of the local economy that feeds off the baseball team."
"His purchase of three rooftop businesses last month is the latest sign that he is gaining control not just of the future of Wrigley but portions of Wrigleyville itself."
"From winning approval to close portions of streets during game days to hosting concerts, the team has begun to transform the rhythm and character of the Lakeview neighborhood. Ricketts' plans to increase business opportunities beyond the stadium already include an open-air plaza, a nearby hotel and street fairs similar to the ones the Red Sox host."
As the plan plays out slowly and below the level of hoopla the team's recent renovation of Wrigley Field elicited, local rooftop business owner Mark Schlenker is quoted in the article describing the team's accomplishments in consolidating control of the neighborhood: "They do have a longer plan — the Disney World of baseball….This is a very brilliantly run campaign to slowly get what they want. I give them credit."
FULL STORY: Cubs owner transforming Wrigley Field, Lakeview to rake in more money
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