Wrigley Field, National Historic Landmark and home of the Chicago Cubs since 1916, is the second oldest ballpark in the Major Leagues and the oldest standing National League ballparkimage source:mlbforlife.com

The Chicago Cubs earned another victory Thursday from the Commission on Chicago Landmarks — the second in a year — but it's beyond the outfield of their historic stadium where their unfinished business remains.

The unanimous decision gave the team the thumbs-up from the city on its $575 million revised plan to remake Wrigley Field and the immediate surrounding area, allowing as many as seven advertising signs to dot outfield walls. The package builds on two signs, including a Jumbotron-like video board in left field, that were approved by the commission last year at this time.

But the possibility of a lawsuit looms from a group of rooftop club owners whose 15 businesses line Waveland and Sheffield avenues. Their contention is that the approved signage violates their contract with the club and has the potential to kill their business.

“It's not about money. It's about monopoly. The Cubs want to own it all,” said Tom Moore, an attorney representing the rooftop owners. “They're now asking you to facilitate their bully tactics.”

Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney acknowledged Thursday that the team no longer is concerned with assurances from rooftop owners that they won't sue.

“In short, we are ready to go,” Kenney said. “With your support today, we'll preserve Wrigley Field for generations to come.”...Continue Reading

> via chicagotribune.com