PNC Park Makeover: Pirates Ballpark Upgrades Revealed

Pittsburgh PA

04 April, 2022

3:09 PM

Description

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pirates are predicted to be the same old team this season that fans have come to expect for decades: bad. However, PNC Park, widely regarded as the best baseball stadium in the big leagues, will be better than ever. The Pirates on Monday announced one of the most significant improvement projects in the history of the 21-year-old ballpark. The enhancements in the outfield areas feature open sight lines to the field, new concession and hospitality concepts, improvements to group gathering areas and new kids play areas. Fans will get their first look at the improvements at the team's home opener April 12 against the Chicago Cubs. The upgrades include: The Bullpen, above the center field bullpens, featuring two rows of drink rails and seating. An expanded kids play area flowing along the Riverwalk into the center field featuring life-sized bobbleheads, a lucky climber shaped like a pirate ship and an accessible kids play bridge inspired by the nearby Roberto Clemente Bridge. The Landing, also sporting drink rails, tables and high-top seating. New local food options along the Riverwalk and in the arcade under the left-field bleachers. The Patio, which extends from the bullpens to the left-field rotunda. The expansion of the platform between the upper- and lower-level bleachers and new furniture is designed to create a comfortable gathering space overlooking left field. The Picnic Park has been renovated to feature upgraded furnishings, enhanced lighting and landscaping as well as additional access points to provide a greater connection to the new fan enhancements along the Riverwalk. "What we have found is a large contingent of our fans like to congregate and share the ballpark experience together, not just sit in their seats the entire time they are here," Pirates president Travis Williams said in a statement. "These enhancements will give fans, especially families, more reasons to be out on the Riverwalk without having to feel disconnected from the action on the field. That will make it more enticing to go enjoy what we believe has been an underutilized area." Be the first to know what's happening in your community and region. With a free Patch subscription, you'll always be up to date on local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe.