CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs have officially launched their Wrigley Field renovation project with a groundbreaking ceremony that included Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.

From a podium in the infield, Selig recalled his first visit to the century-old ballpark, in May 1944, just shy of his 10th birthday. He said Wrigley Field took hold of a special place in his heart “right then and there.”

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel also attended Saturday’s ceremony.

The first phase of the privately funded $575 million project will add new bleachers and seven outfield signs.

Work actually started in September after the season ended, despite a legal feud between the team and owners of rooftop clubs, who fear their views into the stadium will be blocked.

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