As of 670 The Score’s 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these “flashbacks” have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score’s 20th Anniversary page.

September 29, 2003 – Renovated Soldier Field Reopens

Solider Field was first built in 1924, and by the early 2000s, it was ready for a face lift.

After the 2001 season, the Chicago Park District, which owns the structure, began a 20-month, $606 million dollar renovation project to restore structural integrity and expand seating at Soldier Field. As the Bears continued to grow in popularity, the team had out grown its  current home.

The renovation also made Soldier Field more conducive to hosting concerts and other events.

Changes to the the stadium that had been around for eight decades were not met kindly, as some thought the new design resembled a flying saucer. One Chicago Tribune critic labeled the new Solider Field as, “the eyesore of the Lake Shore.”

Regardless, the newly-renovated stadium opened up on September 29, 2003 as the Bears faced the Packers on Monday Night Football.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score’s 20th Anniversary »