Ricketts continue Wrigleyville plan, buy three more rooftop buildings

[cigaretteman]

The Ricketts continue to shake up the Wrigleyville area, buying three more rooftop buildings surrounding the historic stadium, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The nearly-$600 million Wrigley Field renovation project has had plenty of drama, but things are starting to run smoothly now that the bleachers are open and the video boards in left and right field have generally been received warmly by fans and critics.

The Ricketts now own six buildings on Sheffield Avenue, according to the Chicago Tribune, all of which have rooftop business overlooking Wrigley Field.

It's just another step toward complete peace in the area after a nasty battle between the Cubs and the Wrigleyville rooftop owners over the last year-and-a-half (at least).

The Ricketts recently purchased 3637, 3617 and 3619 N. Sheffield, though no prices were announced.

According to the Tribune, the Ricketts own all but three of the Sheffield rooftop businesses - Murphy's Rooftop (above Murphy's Bleachers), Skybox on Sheffield and Lakeview Baseball Club.

http://www.csnchicago.com/cubs/ricketts-continue-wrigleyville-plan-buy-three-more-rooftop-buildings

 

[lucas80]

Screw Murphy's Bleachers.
It will be very interesting to see what they do with the properties. I suspect they'll utilize some of the space for offices. I have heard they'll have some furnished apartments for players on the Des Moines - Chicago shuttle, but there are a few contractual issues with this. I think you may see one of the buildings being turned into a boutique hotel assuming suitable parking could be provided. There will be some retail and rental units retained.
The rooftops themselves will be consolidated. They were over built, and with the restricted views I can see the Ricketts family taking out some of the seating and creating a more concentrated market.