Wrigley construction continues as opening day looms

CHICAGO (WLS) -- It is five days before opening day and construction crews are under the gun to complete essential Wrigley Field construction before Sunday.

Crews use a huge crane parked on the left field warning track to lift one of the 56 panels into place for the giant video board. Somehow, though, they say they will manage to get it done.

"We're ready, regardless of all the rumors and innuendo that's been out there," said Cubs spokesperson Julian Greene. "We are going to be playing baseball Sunday night."

Severe winter weather and some unexpected issues with city sewer pipes set Wrigley construction crews behind schedule, and they've known since November they would not have the bleachers ready in time for the start of the season. The bleachers are all but steel beams at this point and will not be ready by Sunday. The Cubs have already announced it will be mid-June before the outfield stands will be entirely open. For some fans, that's disappointing.

"I think it's disappointing because that's kind of the experience, at least me and my friends, that we like to go and do," said Jessica Ganshirt. "I think that, I mean, that probably will a hindrance to a lot of people who like to go. The affordable tickets, or whatever."

The Cubs plan to cover the bare bleachers with 10 giant murals of the late Ernie Banks. Construction on other areas of the ballpark, including the clubhouse underground on the so-called Triangle Lot, will go on all season. Some construction may even continue during games. In total, the renovation will take five years. But the Cubs promise it will be worth it in the long run.

"The key objective is making sure we're getting this done right, and we're delivering the ultimate in our guest experience," said Carl Rice, Cubs' vice president of baseball operations. "We are excited to receive fans on opening night and kick off a great season of baseball at Wrigley Field."

Ernie Banks' sons will be throwing out the first pitch and singing the seventh inning stretch on opening day. The Cubs will also be wearing patches memorializing the Cubs legend, which will be featured on their uniforms throughout the season.

All bleachers season ticket holders have been relocated until the bleachers are completed.