The Mercedes-Benz Superdome renovation planning process is moving forward, as a key agreement involving the New Orleans Saints was approved on Thursday.
In the coming years, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome could receive a significant renovation. While few details on the potential overhaul have emerged thus far, Superdome owner Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District (LSED) opted last summer to select Trahan Architects of New Orleans to come up with a cost estimate and timeline for the potential project.
The process is continuing to move forward, as the Saints, the LSED, and Superdome operator SMG have agreed to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to share in the funding and development of additional design services. LSED officials approved that MOU on Thursday, while also opting to have Trahan Architects stay on the project and proceed with the next step. More from The Times-Picayune:
“This is a continued effort to move forward and get our ducks in a row, (to determine) whether this project is feasible, this project can be financed,” LSED chairman Kyle France said. “If we can, how will we finance it? We’re investing dollars on the front end so we know what we can get on the back end. I’m optimistic that we’ll be able to put it together.”
The Saints have seen the initial construction timeline plans, France said. For them to have enhanced and continued involvement is part of the next step.
“That’s a central part of the deal,” said Evan Holmes, the director of SMG business operations.
France said there are no renderings yet for a renovated Dome based on architectural designs.
The Mercedes-Benz Superdome will turn 50 in 2025, and has history that includes hosting the Saints and numerous large events, including seven Super Bowls with an eighth slated for 2024. No firm timeline for the potential renovations has emerged to this stage, but it seems likely that the goal would be to complete the upgrades in phases prior to hosting the Super Bowl. The venue is also set to host the NCAA Final Four in 2022, which could also be a consideration in any planning.
Image courtesy Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
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