Dodgers News: Stan Kasten Promises New Wi-Fi By Opening Day

Renovations at Dodger Stadium such as, a revamped visitor’s clubhouse and a viewing section just off the Dodgers’ bullpen have been much publicized as Opening Day nears.  However, the stadium’s Wi-Fi, or lack thereof, has gone relatively undiscussed. Heading into the 2013 season, the plan was for the Wi-Fi throughout the stadium to evolve to a working rate, but that never truly manifested.

According to Steve Dilbeck of the Los Angeles Times, during a town hall meeting with select season ticket holders on Monday night, team president Stan Kasten said the revamped Wi-Fi should be ready by April 4:

For the second consecutive year, I have been promised it will be here on Opening Day, team president Stan Kasten said Monday night.

Also speaking on the matter was marketing vice president Lon Rosen:

We expect it will give fans a new experience here, said team marketing vice president Lon Rosen. They’ll be able to use multiple mobile devices while still watching the game.

Dilbeck reports part of the improvements involves the installation of new antennas in the upper decks and under some seats. Fans who attend games routinely found it difficult, if not impossible, to maintain a reliable cell phone signal, much less successfully use the Wi-Fi currently in place.

What remains to be seen is how effective the new network can function when tens of thousands of fans are attempting to use it.  If the network is able to adequately withstand those rigors, it would certainly provide a boost in the fan experience, which the ownership group has been keenly aware of and taken significant measures to improve.

Given the major overhaul the Dodgers’ clubhouse, batting cages and weight room underwent prior to the start of last season, the organization was afforded some slack for not fulfilling the Wi-Fi promise. However, with Kasten once again vowing improvement, fans may not be as forgiving should the promise not be met.

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