The Detroit Regional Chamber Convention Facility Authority unveiled plans March 2 to give the aging conference center a $221 million facelift.
Along with new wall coverings, carpet and other updates inside, visible upgrades will include:
Converting Cobo Arena into a 40,000-square foot ballroom featuring a glass wall and open-air terrace facing Hart Plaza to the east and a panoramic view of the Detroit River to the South.
Replacement of majority of exterior walls facing the river with glass walls.
A new three-story glass atrium that connects Cobo's main floor to a new entrance facing the river.
Renovation of the east-facing facade facing downtown, including a high-tech "media mesh" that will function as a digital signboard during conventions, according to a March 2 mlive.com report.
