Landmark deal near on Wrigley

Published October 24, 2002

CHICAGO -- The Daley administration on Wednesday extended a freeze on landmarking Wrigley Field until Nov. 27, citing progress in negotiations with the Chicago Cubs on details of an agreement.

"We are almost there," said Planning Commissioner Alicia Berg. "We are close."

A deal on the elements of the ballpark that would be protected is virtually complete, but city officials instructed team executives to meet with Ald. Bernard Hansen (44th) before a final agreement is signed, according to Cubs President Andy MacPhail.

"We believe we have pretty much reached an understanding with the city as it relates to landmarking," he said. "We are assuming the extension involves wrapping up community issues."

Hansen, who represents the area around Wrigley, has been pushing for adoption of a neighborhood protection plan that would address problems on game days.

The alderman said only that he has "a few questions in regard to a few technical issues" related to landmarking.

The Cubs are owned by Tribune Co., which also owns the Chicago Tribune.

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