Construction of the new Milwaukee Bucks arena is making significant progress, providing anticipation for its 2018 opening.
When it comes to arenas, one of the major stories in the new year will likely be the completion and opening of the Bucks’ new venue in downtown Milwaukee. It is being constructed as part of a larger development project that includes a practice facility, parking garage, and entertainment district. Aside from its development component, the arena is drawing intrigue for the spectator experience it could offer for basketball action and major concerts and events.
Throughout the construction process, the Bucks have anticipated that the 2018-19 NBA season will be their first in the new arena. That goal looks likely to be achieved like as 2017 winds down, as officials say that construction on the arena is more than 75% complete. More from The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
Work is more than 75% complete and there are about 800 workers on the site today, said Mike Sorge, construction executive/project director for Mortenson, the company managing the construction for the Bucks.
The number of workers on the site is expected to decline starting in January, Sorge said.
Workers are busy installing the zinc and architectural panels on the exterior of the building. And installation of the glass panels is continuing on the entrance on the east side of the building, Sorge said.
Inside, workers are busy painting, hanging and finishing drywall and working on terrazzo and flooring. Escalators and elevator work are continuing as well.
The Bucks will play out the 2017-18 NBA season at the BMO Harris Bradley Center, their home since 1988. When the new Bucks arena opens, the adjacent Bradley Center is expected to be demolished to clear the way for future development.
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