More night games at Wrigley? Fans say yes, neighbors say no

MEDILL NEWS SERVICE

Cubs' fans are excited about the idea of more home night games.

But residents in Wrigleyville and the surrounding area are concerned about the amount of traffic, noise and crowds of thousands that likely would disturb the neighborhood at late hours, according to David Winner, president of the Lakeview Citizens' Council.

Chicago Cubs officials threw out informal ideas last week, to add extra night games and concerts at Wrigley Field, according to Ald. Thomas Tunney (44th).  But "it was nothing of substance," he added.

It's all speculation according to Mike Lufriano, who works for the Cubs' Media Affairs Department.

"There are a lot of ideas about what might happen if Wrigley Field or  the Cubs are sold," he said, referring to owner Sam Zell's plans to sell the team and ball park.

Currently, a city ordinance restricts the Cubs to playing only 30 night games per season at home.  Most teams in the National Baseball League have more than 50, Lufriano said. The Cubs had 26 night games in Wrigley Field, last season.