(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – Sports marketing expert Marc Ganis doesn’t want to put the cart before the horse, but yes, he has some observations about the prospect that the Chicago White Sox could leave Bridgeport for the South Loop.
“If this happens – and there’s a lot of things to take place before it does -- this would be transformational for generations for the White Sox,” Ganis told the Noon Business Hour on Thursday, amid published reports the South Siders may be exploring a move.
“It could help minimize the gap between the Cubs and the White Sox, in terms of relevance in town. And it’s one of those big ideas that often have a difficult time happening, but if it does, it could be awesome.”
The White Sox currently occupy the publicly owned Guaranteed Rate Field at 35th and Shields, which is near their earlier home of Comiskey Park. According to published reports, a trial balloon has been floated in which the Sox would develop a parcel (now privately owned) at Roosevelt and Clark.
Among the hurdles is the cost of redeveloping the long-vacant South Loop site, known as “The 78.” Ganis notes there has been nearby redevelopment in recent memory, but certain infrastructure work would be costly.
That, in turn, raises the issue of whether – and how much – public participation would be necessary, Ganis concedes.
“That will be subject to the negotiations between the White Sox and the relevant parties,” he said. “But keep in mind that the current stadium is paid for almost entirely by the public sector – its construction, its capital improvements, even a significant part of its operating expenses.”
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker on Thursday noted he has been reluctant to support public assistance for private sports projects.
But he added that government can play a role in helping to support businesses.
“Whether it’s sports teams or other private businesses, we’ll be looking at whatever they may be suggesting or asking,” he said.
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