Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Philadelphia Phillies, is more than just a ballpark; it’s a symbol of Philadelphia’s passion for baseball. Located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, it stands as a modern shrine to America’s pastime.
Stadium Facts about Citizens Bank Park
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Opened On: April 3, 2004
- Home Team: Philadelphia Phillies (National League)
- Stadium Nicknames: The Bank, CBP
- Dimensions: Left Field – 329 feet, Center Field – 401 feet, Right Field – 330 feet
- Capacity: 42,792
- Attendance Record: 46,528 (2010, NLCS Game 6)
- Surface: Kentucky Bluegrass
- Architect: EwingCole, HOK Sport (now Populous)
- Owner: City of Philadelphia
- Construction Cost: $458 million
The History
Citizens Bank Park was built to replace the aging Veterans Stadium and to provide a more intimate baseball experience for Phillies fans. It was designed to celebrate the rich history of Philadelphia baseball and create a unique atmosphere that reflects the city’s spirit.
Design and Features
The park is known for its fan-friendly design, offering spectacular views of the Philadelphia skyline from its open concourses. The asymmetrical field layout and natural grass surface pay homage to classic ballparks, while the incorporation of modern amenities ensures a comfortable viewing experience. A key feature is Ashburn Alley, named after Phillies’ legend Richie Ashburn, which is a walkway showcasing the team’s history.
Renovations
Since its opening, there have been several renovations at Citizens Bank Park to enhance the fan experience. These include expanded seating areas, improvements to the video and sound systems, and upgrades to concessions and restrooms.
Facilities
The ballpark offers a wide variety of amenities, including diverse food options, ranging from traditional ballpark fare to local Philadelphia specialties. The stadium features numerous lounges and clubs, interactive areas for kids, and a Phillies merchandise store. It also has environmentally-friendly initiatives like a comprehensive recycling program.
Memorable Moments at Citizens Bank Park
- 2008 World Series Victory: The Phillies clinching their second World Series title.
- Roy Halladay’s Postseason No-Hitter: One of only two in MLB history, occurring in the 2010 NLDS.
- Jimmy Rollins’ Walk-Off Double: In Game 4 of the 2009 NLCS.
- 2011 NLDS Game 5: A historic pitching duel between Roy Halladay and Chris Carpenter.
- Multiple All-Star Selections: Hosting several Phillies players selected for the MLB All-Star Game.
Interesting Baseball History at Citizens Bank Park
- Hosting the 2007 and 2008 MLB All-Star Games: Showcasing the stadium to a global audience.
- Development of Phillies Talents: The careers of players like Ryan Howard and Chase Utley blossoming at the park.
- Community Engagement: The park has been central to the Phillies’ community outreach and charitable efforts.
- Green Initiatives: Efforts to make the park one of the most environmentally-friendly stadiums in MLB.
Non-Baseball Events
Citizens Bank Park is not limited to baseball; it has hosted a variety of other events. These include major concerts featuring renowned artists, international soccer matches, winter classic hockey games, and numerous community events. These activities highlight its role as a versatile and significant entertainment venue in Philadelphia.
