Detroit, MI – Construction crews were in the home stretch of completing Phase 2 of a $279 million renovation to Cobo Center in Detroit before the opening of the January 10-23 North American International Auto Show in January.
The third and final phase, which is also the most extensive and visible portion of the project, will get underway as soon as the auto show is completed.
The third phase was given the official green light November 29 when three banks signed the closing documents on the financing package. “The official approval of these bonds is an important juncture in the renovation effort, and paves the way for the final phase of Cobo’s transformation,” said Patrick Bero, CEO of the Detroit Regional Convention Center Authority.
Phase 3 includes the addition of a 40,000 square foot ballroom and pre-function space. Both will offer a panoramic view of the Detroit River. The project also includes additional meeting space and a new exterior façade. The work will be completed in late 2014.
The second phase, nearing completion, included the addition of 25,000 square feet of exhibit space and 400 parking spaces plus new electrical work, a partial re-roofing and enclosure of the loading dock.
The first phase included $3 million of urgent repairs and upgrades to accommodate the NAIAS.
Reach Thom Connors, general manager, at (313) 877-8777or tconnors@cobocenter.co
