Kauffman Stadium Upgrades Look Pretty Rad

I've always had a certain affinity for Kauffman Stadium. Love -- absolutely love -- the waterfall-and-fountain combo beyond the outfield wall. I'm also a big fan of the huge crown perched atop the scoreboard in center field.

That being said: by 2010, it looks like the Royals are going to step up their stadium decor quite a bit.

The distinctive crowned scoreboard that's towered behind center field since Kauffman Stadium opened in 1973 will tower much taller.

It will be easier to buy a hot dog. And fans will sit nearer the field to eat it. Once a vast renovation project is completed by 2010, Kauffman will have more restroom facilities and concession stands than any other major league ballpark, planners said Monday.

There also will be much wider concourses, a food court, a restaurant and a hall of fame, a conference center, a state-of-the-art high definition video board, more escalators, elevators and stairs, and -- spreading tempting aromas all over the park -- a giant barbecue pit behind right field called "Taste of KC."

Yup, they're doing real big in Kansas City. No word on whether the organization has plans to upgrade the team yet. But, you know, I'm sure that's coming sometime soon too.

(You can get some more artist rendering right here.)