Arcadis to Oversee Capital Construction Improvements at Massachusetts Convention Facilities
February 14, 2018
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) has selected global design and consultancy firm, Arcadis, to oversee a capital improvements construction program to enhance four of MCCA’s convention and event facilities.
As Owner’s Project Manager (OPM), Arcadis will act as an extension of MCCA staff and lead construction management and administration activities to plan, initiate, manage and execute capital projects at Boston’s John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center; the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center; the Boston Common Garage and the MassMutual Center in Springfield.
The company is contracted with the MCCA for an initial three-year term effective immediately, with the MCCA holding two one-year options for an extension of the contract.
“The MCCA invests tens of millions of dollars annually to ensure our portfolio of venues delivers an exceptional experience as we welcome visitors from around the world to Massachusetts,” said David Gibbons, MCCA executive director.
He continued, “Arcadis’ planning and program management expertise is key to the continued improvements and development of our award-winning facilities on behalf of the commonwealth and in service to our customers.”
Arcadis’ responsibilities will include managing project design phases, financial control, construction quality assurance/quality control and administration of design, construction and service contracts, with program initiatives to include operational, capital renewal and strategic projects to enhance facilities and boost economic growth.
Arcadis’ portfolio of OPM services on large capital programs in Massachusetts includes more than $1.5 billion in construction value for higher education, healthcare and biopharma clients.
The company also boasts an extensive portfolio of K-12 work for the Massachusetts School Building Authority and work on cultural projects such as Harvard’s Smith Campus Center, Harvard Art Museums and Smith College Neilson Library, with its services including pre-construction review, cost consulting, program management, and capital renewal strategy and deployment.
“I am thrilled Arcadis is contributing to improving quality of life throughout Greater Boston and Massachusetts,” said Wassim Selman, Arcadis president of infrastructure.
He continued, “As a long-standing member of the community, we are proud of our work across multiple sectors of the local economy. We look forward to working with the MCCA to drive additional economic growth through the state’s convention center facilities.”
According to MCCA officials, Massachusetts served as a prime destination for meetings and events in 2017, generating more than $775 million for the local and regional economy.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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