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New Scoreboard Expected In Target Field Upgrades

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Target Field has only been open for one season, and already the Minnesota Twins are announcing expected upgrades.

On Wednesday morning, team officials announced enhancements that will be made to make the fan experience even better. The expected cost for all improvements is between $4 million and $6 million.

The improvements come after officials listened to fan feedback from the Twins' inaugural season at the ballpark. The Minnesota Twins president said the upgrades are made in the spirit of keeping the Target Field's reputation as one of the nation's best ballparks intact.

Among the new features they touted is a new scoreboard for the right field seating area. The scoreboard will boast a three-dimensional interface, and is being developed by South Dakota-based Daktronics.

Twins president Dave St. Peter said the placement of the sign has nothing to do with an advertisement on the outside of Target Center, which has been source of friction between the Twins and Timberwolves. St. Peter says the sign will not block the advertisement very much.

"We've been working on the placement of the scoreboard and specifically the tower for probably four or five months, really dating back to the early part of season when we saw that we had complaints from fans who didn't have access to replays," he said.

NewsRadio 830 WCCO's Susie Jones Reports

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Twins spokesman Chris Iles says the improvements to the ballpark will include adjustments to audio-visual elements and concession areas as well as a variety of aesthetic changes.

There will be a free WiFi network, referred to as "Twi-Fi." There will also be what's called the second phase for the Twins' tradition wall.

There will be heaters in outside areas on the terrace level, and more artwork throughout the stadium, including an additional player statue to be announced for the 2011 season.

Also, there should be more Minnesota-centric options in the stadium's concessions. Perhaps even Tinucci's, Bell joked.

(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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