Detroit's Cobo Center Moves Into Newest Construction Phase

May 28, 2012

Detroit’s Cobo Center $221 million renovation and expansion has marked an important milestone in stage one of Phase III of the five-year project, with the onset of construction of the three-story atrium that links the main floor of the venue with a new entrance facing the Detroit River.

"Today's the day when the caterpillar officially enters its cocoon and begins its transformation into a butterfly," said Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority Board Chair Larry Alexander.

He added, "When complete, this area will be the most visually dramatic and breathtaking manifestation of physical change to the facility."

The atrium will be completed in time for the North American International Auto Show, the venue’s biggest event, on tap Jan. 14-27 next year.

Internal demolition on the former Cobo Arena is complete, and a new glass exterior, a 40,000 square foot ballroom and 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space will take its place, scheduled to be completed May 2013.

The construction has not disrupted normal operations at the center, according to officials from SMG, the venue management company that took over the reins at the venue in October 2010.

Thom Connors, regional vice president and 37-year veteran with SMG, came aboard as general manager.

“Attendance was up this year for our two largest shows, the North American International Auto Show and Autorama,” Connors said.

He added, “The construction areas have been successfully isolated from events, and we are open for business.”

SMG has had several wins since it took over management of the center:

-   The auto show announced an agreement with SMG for a five-year deal to keep the event in Cobo, which is expected to pump an estimated $1.75 billion into the Metro Detroit community.

-   The state of Michigan awarded Cobo Center a Green Venues Michigan certification. The Detroit Shoppe featuring made-in-Michigan

-   Detroit sports team merchandise opened on the concourse, with all proceeds going to local area charities.

-   The number of events and visitors to Cobo Center doubled from FY 2011 – 2012, while operating expense was reduced by $1.3 million because of reduction in energy usage.

“It’s professional management, it’s better service, it’s better sales, so we’ve increased the level of activity,” said Patrick Bero, CEO and chief financial officer of the DRCFA.

In addition, summer bookings doubled since last year, with events on the calendar that include the Detroit Book Expo, the National Veterans Administration Small Business Conference and Expo and the TEAMS Conference & Expo.

Visitors to the center have given it high marks as well, giving Cobo an overall facility rating of 97.6 percent, or excellent, in the first quarter of 2012.

“I think that’s now become the new standard and we’re challenged to maintain it throughout the construction,” Connors said.

He added, “All three stages of Phase III of the Cobo Center renovation will be completed for our upcoming (American Society of Association Executives) Annual Meeting & Exposition in the summer of 2015. In the meantime, we have all exhibit space available and full use of meeting rooms up to current capacity.”

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.