Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise the Miami Marlins has unveiled the latest project in the ongoing transformation plan at its ballpark with the introduction of two social space concepts, including standing room only (SRO) sections.
Center Field Zone and SRO Social Section aim to provide fans new vantage points and unique viewing experiences at Marlins Park. Both areas, which were designed by US sports architecture firm MSA Sport, feature SRO space which seeks to enhance the ability to flow freely between locations for varied perspectives of the field and game action.
A new low-priced ticket product, the SRO Social Pass, will provide holders with priority access to both new locations and viewing experiences.
“As we continue our commitment to elevate the fan experience at Marlins Park, we are focused on creating a sense of community through spaces which encourage social engagement among fans,” said Chip Bowers, Marlins president of business operations.
“The new Center Field Zone and SRO Social Section will provide unique field sightlines and access for fans, with passes starting as low as $10 (£7.70/€8.80) per game.”
The Center Field Zone is a tiered viewing platform structure with three primary levels. The top level is accessible to all fans from the Promenade Level and will feature a craft cocktail bar experience. The middle level will serve as an exclusive standing view platform with drink rail for SRO Social Pass holders; and the lower level will serve as an exclusive group hospitality space.
Redevelopment of this area at Marlins Park will provide improved sightlines from the concourse to the field and back to the cityscape in the exterior through the Skyline Terrace. The re-imagined in-bowl visual experience is surrounded by a redesigned batter’s eye with an ivy-look that transitions to the State Farm signage on the left field facade.
With more than 2,250 total square feet of space across the three levels, the Center Field Zone will reach a spectator capacity of nearly 400. The lower level, which overlooks the center field wall, and brings fans closer to the action, will have contained hospitality space for up to 200 guests.
SRO Social Section, with a spectator capacity of more than 200, will be located in the foul territory corner of right field, composed of the former 10 rows of Sections 1-3 closest to the Promenade Level concourse. The section will provide an exclusive access gathering spot for SRO Social Pass holders with a redesigned in-section view of the game from five tiered drink rails.
The Center Field Zone will be located in the space vacated by the Home Run Sculpture, which has been a part of Marlins Park since the stadium opened in 2012. The sculpture, which is known as ‘Homer’, flashes every time the Marlins score a home run, with pink flamingos also flapping their wings and marlins jumping out of its dancing waters. Popular with fans, it is now expected to be located outside the ballpark.
“Our goal is to make Marlins Park an entertainment venue that appeals to all, from the baseball fan to the avid business networker,” Bowers added. “As we look to further engage the burgeoning millennial audience in Miami, this new feature will provide an option for an enhanced social environment to meet the demand of the next generation of baseball fans.”
Image: Miami Marlins
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