KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -
The Major League Baseball All-Star game in Kansas City is a project that's been two years in the making and it's now just a week away. For crews working on Kauffman Stadium, it's down to the wire time.
For those wanting a preview of what to expect, KCTV 5 ‘s Alan Shope gives a tour.
Maybe the biggest challenge for Michael Swanson and his Royals staff hosting the 2012 All-Star game is the media. Over 2,500 media credentials were requested for the Tuesday night All-Star game and that means finding room for everyone.
Crews have spent the last week adding more overflow seating for the media while at the same time trying not to hurt the fan experience.
As far as fans go, there are several new attractions to experience at Kauffman stadium – attractions like the fan can in right field.
"That's the fan can, there's a contest where 10 fans can sit in that air conditioned area. It's one can you want to be in," Swanson said.
Outside crews are quickly working to finish a huge gala tent in parking lot M where the post-event celebration for fans will be.
"Chris Botti will be there, a jazz man. Then the night just before the game on Tuesday there will be a pre-party in that tent and country singer Luke Bryan will be there," Swanson said.
The Royals are asking fans to remember the heat and be prepared.
"The biggest thing is to get out here and get their location so they know where they are going to be during the game. Spend some time on the concourse, get something to drink, make sure they are well hydrated," Swanson said.
Probably the hottest event that's going to take place is the Futures Game at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 8. Crews hope to have everything done by Friday and will work 24 hours a day leading up to then, if needed.
"We have to be perfect or about perfect if there is such a thing," Swanson said. "Our goal is to be 100 percent ready."
Crews will take Wednesday off for the Fourth of July, but will get back to work on Friday and expect to be All-Star game ready by Friday night.
The Royals said this weekend they will start building the ESPN and game broadcast sets in left field.
Copyright 2012 KCTV (Meredith Corp.) All rights reserved.
Photo Courtesy: KCTV5's Blaise Labbe
