Architect picked for Cubs’ spring training complex

MESA, Ariz. — The design firm and contractor are in place for the construction of the Chicago Cubs’ new spring training home in Mesa.

Mayor Scott Smith said Tuesday that Populous of Kansas City, Mo., will design the complex. The company has designed 118 ballparks including spring training complexes in Goodyear, Peoria, Surprise and Mesa’s current Cubs facilities.

The Cubs had initially envisioned the new complex would be ready for spring training in 2013, but Smith says they’re now aiming for 2014. Smith says Mesa wants to avoid repeating the experiences of other stadiums that were built on extremely tight deadlines.

The East Valley Tribune reports Scottsdale-based Hunt Construction Group will build the complex. Hunt’s projects include Chase Field, the US Airways Center, University of Phoenix Stadium and 13 Major League Baseball stadiums.