Guardians announce Progressive Field renovation projects and timeline
CLEVELAND — Progressive Field is getting a facelift after this season.
The Guardians unveiled plans and timelines for a series of renovations and improvements to the ballpark, which has been the franchise’s home since 1994.
The projects, titled Progressive Field Reimagined, are being funded with $202.5 million of the $435 million that was included in the lease agreement between the team and city that now runs through 2036 (with two five-year extension options beyond that as well). The rest of that money will go toward capital repairs (normal maintenance) throughout the life of the lease. Of the $202.5 million being estimated for the renovations, $67 million is coming from the Guardians.
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The series of projects are largely aimed toward giving fans additional social spaces to enjoy, particularly in the upper deck, along with renovations to other areas of the ballpark. The team is also putting an emphasis on improving and streamlining the facilities used by the players, including new clubhouses and advancements on the service level.
Construction on these projects is expected to begin immediately after the conclusion of the Guardians’ 2023 season (essentially the day after the team’s final game, whenever that ends up being). The upper deck and right field renovations are scheduled to be completed by opening day 2024, with the rest of the projects finished by opening day 2025.
“Progressive Field has been a fantastic home to Cleveland Baseball since it opened in 1994,” said Cleveland Guardians owner, chairman and CEO Paul Dolan. “As the 11th-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, Progressive Field reimagined will continue to improve and extend the life of the ballpark.”
Progressive Field revamped upper deck
One of the club’s priorities was to give fans additional social spaces. In place of the shipping containers sitting in the upper deck in right field, that area will feature wide open spaces that can accommodate large groups. That space will coincide with a building being constructed along E. 9th St. The upper deck all around the park will also feature grab-and-go concessions options, allowing fans to have a “frictionless” experience. Some of these areas will also include additional panoramic views of the city.
“As we sought feedback from our fans regarding what they’d like to see at Progressive Field, we continuously heard feedback that aligned with the success we’ve seen at the Corner Bar, and that is a focus on more social spaces and compelling fan experiences, offering unique ways to enjoy a baseball game,” said president of business operations Brian Barren.
Progressive Field E. 9th St. building
This structure will allow for the clubhouse expansion, giving the team the space for a new kitchen and commissary for the Guardians concessionaire, as well as additional storage facilities for the ballpark. The rooftop of the building will connect to the upper concourse to serve as a group space in right field. This building and the upper deck experiences detailed above are scheduled to be completed by Opening Day 2024.
Progressive Field Terrace Club (left field)
The Terrace Club, which is currently enclosed with glass, will be transformed into a multi-story, open-air section (in addition to an indoor area behind the seating) with an authentic-to-Cleveland Beer Hall. The team will also implement improved escalator/stair access to allow fans to move more easily between levels. The 200- and 300-levels will feature terrace-specific seating, with the Beer Garden on the 400-level being open to all fans.