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Dodgers look to reduce waits

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If you don’t have to wait as long to buy a Dodger dog or find a parking space next season, the Dodgers will consider its modest stadium improvement program a success.

For the first time since Frank McCourt bought the team in 2004, Dodger Stadium will not undergo major off-season renovations. Within the next six months, McCourt said Wednesday, he hopes to unveil a grand plan to carry Dodger Stadium into its second half-century by blending the amenities of modern ballparks within its traditional setting.

In the meantime, the Dodgers will take the initial steps to resolve complaints from fans who miss part of the game because of long lines at concession stands and chronic congestion in parking lots. “We want to eliminate as much of the hassle as possible,” McCourt said.

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The Dodgers are working on plans to improve traffic flow into and out of the parking lot, McCourt said, without offering details. He also said the Dodgers would open large merchandise stores in tents adjacent to the outfield pavilions, enabling the team to offer more items for sale. As a result, he said, the Dodgers can convert some merchandise stands within the stadium into additional concession stands.

The team also is completing a two-year project to repair the stadium foundation, a prelude to renovation and expansion of all concourse areas. That work could include a promenade near the pavilions, replacing the merchandise tents with a permanent gathering place where fans could beat traffic by arriving early to eat, drink and shop.

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