KANSAS CITY -- A new look, new seating and new ticket prices are coming to Kauffman Stadium in 2009.

The Royals on Friday announced ticket pricing for the renovated stadium, which for the first time will include seating near the famed fountains beyond the outfield fences and in the new Diamond Club behind home plate.

The average ticket price for single-game purchases will rise to $24.84 from the $22.91 average in 2008. That excludes prices for "premium games" and ranks 24th among the 30 Major League clubs, based on 2008 pricing.

Season-ticket holders will have an increase to $19.17 per seat from $17.60. They will get the first look at the new seating areas and details on how to buy the seats before the general public. Those displaced by the renovations will be given information on relocating.

According to the club, 58 percent of the seats went up by no more than $1, and in some cases, had no increase. More than 35 percent of the seats (13,400) will cost $16 or less.

The new Fountain Pavilion, with a view from behind the left-field water display, will have the lowest-priced tickets, at $7, which will be available only on the day of game.

Just behind the left-field wall, in front of the fountains and above the visitors' and Royals' bullpens, will be the new Outfield Box seats. Prices range from $25 for single-game seats to $20 if purchased as part of a full season-ticket package.

The Diamond Club, formerly in Dugout Box sections 101-104, will feature wait service and access to the new lounge, which will have a floor-to-ceiling window. Prices in that area are $55 (season tickets) and $75 (single game). For Diamond Club Boxes, the prices are $70 (season tickets) and $95 (single game).

Prices in two of the most affordable areas in 2008 will remain the same -- Hy-Vee View, $9, and Hy-Vee Box, $13. Also returning is the "Buy 2, Get 2" season-ticket plan, which offers View Box seats for $7.50 each.

Seats in the Lower Bowl have been increased $1 to $5 per seat for season-ticket holders.

Season-ticket packages are available for 81, 41 and 21 games.

Dates for premium-priced games have not been announced, nor has the date for single-game sales.

"The current economic situation that faces our nation as a whole has grabbed our attention, and after an immense amount of work on the pricing structure, we feel this is a fair and balanced plan that will allow fans a broad menu of price options depending on their desired amenities.  Our goal is to have the increased revenues support our continued improvement on the field through scouting, player development and free agency," Kevin Uhlich, the Royals' senior vice president of business operations, said in a statement.

"We have an obligation to the fans that have displayed their loyalty by investing in us for the long haul, thus we are committed to providing season-ticket holders the lowest prices available."

The grand reopening of Kauffman Stadium will come on April 10, when the Royals play the New York Yankees.