Updating an Icon

Chicago’s Wrigley Field is going digital. But don’t worry, the ballpark’s signature scoreboard won’t be touched.

The Commission on Chicago Landmarks has approved a request from the Cubs to install additional signage at the famed ballpark. According to Mike Lufrano, the Cubs’ vice president of community relations, the team plans to extend digital signage on the sides of the grandstands by adding fixed advertising panels on either side. Peter Scales of the Chicago Dept. of Planning and Development said the ballpark’s landmark status doesn’t prevent it from undergoing modifications. “Landmark buildings aren’t frozen in time, need to be maintained and can be improved while respecting their history,” Scales said.

Four years ago, parts of Wrigley Field, including its ivy-clad brick wall, centerfield scoreboard and the marquee at the intersection of Clark and Addison Sts., were granted landmark status by the city council.

But while the architecture at Wrigley field is safe, the historic name might not be. To the chagrin of fans, new owner Sam Zell is considering selling the naming rights to the park.