Wrigley plan in works

Former Gov. Jim Thompson says the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority is preparing a plan to purchase and renovate Wrigley Field that doesn't use state or local tax dollars. Thompson, who is chairman of the agency, says the plan would allow the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority to acquire and fully restore Wrigley Field, as well as add parking and neighborhood improvements. He says the bid will be handed to Tribune Company shortly. Cubs Chairman and Tribune Senior Vice President Crane Kenney says the media giant is still interested in doing a deal with the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority. Thompson says financing would be obtained in the private sector, with no issuance of bonds by the state. He says team lease payments and the sale of partial naming rights would cover the cost of purchasing the park. Thompson, who declined to disclose what revenue stream would pay for the renovation, estimated the cost at about $400 million.