MGM Resorts International and AEG have released the first renderings of their new arena that will open near the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, adjacent to the I-15 corridor.
The new arena, which is expected to break ground in 2014 and open in spring 2016, will offer premium club experiences and features aimed at hosting NBA and NHL teams, concerts, boxing, mixed martial arts, family shows, award shows and other major events.
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The arena is intended as the centerpiece of the revitalization of the area between the New York-New York and Monte Carlo resorts. The project's anticipated cost of approximately $350 million will be financed entirely with equity contributions from the partners and privately funded third-party debt financing. The arena is being designed to meet the U.S. Green Building Council's standards for LEED Gold Certification.
The design by Populous includes an expansive glass façade with an LED overlay; sweeping, dramatic balconies; an exterior performance stage and a sleek exterior that is as bold as it is sophisticated, creating a visually captivating and iconic focal point in Las Vegas' bustling entertainment market.
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"As with arenas such as STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, London's The O2, Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai and several others in the AEG Facilities portfolio, this new arena in Las Vegas is destined to be one of the most recognizable, respected and iconic venues in our industry," said Dan Beckerman, president and CEO, AEG. "From the diverse collection of unique and custom-designed premium seating and hospitality options to the variety of programming that will be booked, there will be offerings to appeal to the widest audience; from casino operators and their guests to international travelers and local residents, this will be world-class in every sense."
Brad Clark, senior principal at Populous and a lead designer of the arena, said "The design of the arena ensures we will create a truly striking entertainment venue for Las Vegas - representing the color, drama and excitement the city exudes. The arena will be an extension of The Strip's high energy - our job with the design was to stay authentic to that spirit."
The renderings highlight day and night exterior views of the arena which reaches 145' at the highest point of the roof. A monumental glass entry façade with a giant LED overlay runs along the northeast side of the arena reaching a height of 118' at the parapet of the entry façade.
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