Next phase of $300 million Cobo renovation project to be revealed

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Plans for the next phase of a $300 million project to improve the Cobo Convention & Exhibition Center were revealed today. Artist renderings and flying animation will show details of the work ahead.

A five-member regional authority board is heading up the changes for the aging, 2.4 million square foot convention center that has had a number of infrastructure problems including ceiling leaks.

Early renovation concepts include glass walls to take full advantage of Cobo’s prime location on the Detroit riverfront.

Some of the most visible upgrades to Cobo Center announced today include:

• A 40,000-square foot ballroom that will feature a glass wall and open-air terrace facing Hart Plaza and Detroit’s downtown to the east as well as a panoramic view of the Detroit River and the international border to the south.

• A new “signature space” in the form of a three story, glass atrium that links the main floor of the venue with a new entrance facing the Detroit River.

• A primary façade including a high-tech “media mesh” that will function as a giant digital signboard welcoming conventions and guests.

• A new entrance to the recently-developed food court, improved protection from the elements for arriving guests and increased use of glass in exterior walls.

The expansion and renovation will reportedly be ready just in time for the 2012 North American International Auto Show.