Architects & Engineers Selected

The Vision 2025 Arena and Convention Center Oversight Committee has recommended to Mayor Bill LaFortune a local consortium headed by Matrix Architects for the design and overview of the construction of the new arena and renewal of the existing convention center. A Qualification Basis (QBS) procedure was used to bring an original submittal of 12 firms, which was narrowed to the final four, all of whom were interviewed over two days.

A press conference with Mayor LaFortune, Vision Builders, the oversight committee members and the arena and design committee members, was held to announce the selection.

Joining Matrix were the other local firms of Wallace Engineering, Consynsus headed by Kathleen Page of the American Institute of Architects, Sisemore, Weisz & Associates and Eslick Design. Odell Associates, a nationally significant design firm specializing in arenas and convention centers has agreed to join Matrix by opening a local office at 201 West 5th Street. This combined office will function as an information office that will feature exhibits and work in progress.

Cesar Pelli, FAIA, one of the world?s most honored architects, is the team's lead designer. Pelli, who is winner of the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal, the highest honor of all AIA awards. Pelli designed the world?s tallest buildings, the twin tower/multi-use complex which includes a large convention center at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

"This combination, creating local jobs with world class design fulfills my continued commitment to the goals of Vision 2025," said Mayor LaFortune.

• Convention/Events Center