Adaptive Reuse of Cobo Center’s 2.4 million square-footprint updates security and parking
DETROIT December 13, 2012 -- Thom Connors, regional vice president and general manager of Cobo Center/SMG announced the reopening of the Cobo Center Washington Blvd. Garage, making a total of 2000 spaces available on site at Cobo. Following extensive renovations, the Washington Blvd. and Congress St. garages feature bright, energy efficient, induction lighting, along with increased security patrols and an upgraded security camera network. In mid 2014, the Cobo Center Atwater Street Garage will reopen with all the same safety and security features.
“We think the efficiency and security of this system will translate to time and money savings for future operations, and greater comfort and peace of mind for our monthly parkers and visitors,” said Connors.
The $299 million Cobo Center renovation began in 2009 with the formation of the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority. Renovation and upgrades to the parking garages are part of Phase III of the three-phase project scheduled for completion in early 2015.
About Cobo Center: With 723,000 square feet of exhibit space, Cobo Center boasts one of the
largest contiguous exhibit floor spaces in North America and is the 19th largest convention center
in the country. Visit online at www.cobocenter.com
About SMG: Since 1977, SMG has provided management services to more than 220 public
assembly facilities including arenas, stadiums, theatres and performing arts centers, equestrian
facilities and convention, congress and exhibition centers. Visit www.smgworld.com for more
information.
About the DRCFA: On 9/15/09, operational control of Cobo Center transferred to the Detroit
Regional Convention Facility Authority, under a collaborative agreement by the Michigan State
Legislature, the City of Detroit, and Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Each of these
entities has an appointed member on the DRCFA Board. Larry Alexander is Chairman the Board
as the member appointed by the Governor of the State of Michigan. For more information visit:
http://www.drcfa.org/