Day 50 of 365

Putting on the finishing touches

I got a glimpse of the future when I went out to Queens for a look at the past.

"New tackles old," San Diego, April 2006

"New tackles old," San Diego, April 2006
It's not just that they're building new ballparks to look like old ones, but they're doing it in old, run-down sections of town and often incorporating elements of the past into the new design. In Baltimore, it's the old B&O warehouse that forms the backdrop to Camden Yards. In Seattle, it's the railroad tracks that run just beyond the outfield wall, beneath Safeco Field's retractable roof, when it's open. In San Diego, it's the Western Supply Co. building that serves as a ticket office and restaurant, among other things, in the city's new Petco Park. When you walk into these parks, the exterior and various details are sharp, shiny and new, but the overall design and feel of the place is decidedly retro. It's all the rage.