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Jacobs Field
Home of the Cleveland Indians
In 1985, Richard and David Jacobs purchased the Cleveland Indians in the hopes of boosting the team's morale and fan attendance. Immediate plans got underway to build a new ballpark and move the team out of Cleveland Stadium. Under the architectural design of HOK Sport and the construction of Gateway Economic Development Corporation, a $175 million facility, known as Jacobs Field, opened it's doors in April 1994. Home to the Cleveland Indians, Jacobs Field has a current capacity of more than 43,000 spectators. Of it's massive construction budget, 48% derived from public financing while the majority of 52% came directly from the Indians owner as private funding.
Attendance quickly grew as Jacobs Field opened with nearly 40,000 fans attending each game. Smaller than it's Cleveland Stadium predecessor, Jacobs Field features an impressive number of luxury suites and clubhouses. A convenient location in downtown Cleveland, asymmetrical design and classic styling make Jacobs Field a fan friendly facility. Children can enjoy KidsLand, which is located behind the first base area while adults enjoy the picnic area behind the outfield fence. Other amenities include the Miller Lite Patio Area, the virtual Home Run Derby, the Indians Team Store, the batting cage and Wahoo World, which is where fans can challenge their arm at the Speed Pitch Machine.
There have been a number of memorable moments here at Jacobs Field and, as many predict, that's just the beginning. Among them, the 1995 World Series and, in 1997, the All-Star game. In 2004, Jacobs Field celebrated it's 10th Anniversary.
Jacobs Field occupies 12 acres and is part of the Gateway Sports & Entertainment Complex in downtown Cleveland. It is a truly modern facility with a classic touch of history. It's design mimics those of traditional baseball fields while it's modern amenities keep it in touch with today's technology and construction. Jacobs Field is not completely enclosed, which allows for fans to have a view of the city lights. In addition, Bullpens are placed in the facility so that fans can watch athletes as they warm up for the big game. Fans who want a real close-up view may want to arrive at Jacobs Field early on game day for possible autographs. As time permits, some coaches and players may be able to sign autographs for their fans several hours before the opening pitch. With most facilities, these opportunities end 45 minutes before the game begins, so arrive early if you hope to snag a signature.
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