Cobo Center Ready To Debut New Plaza This Spring

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) — Detroit's Cobo Center is getting ready to debut a new plaza this spring that will host art exhibits, exercise events and other activities.

Those involved in the effort say Cobo Square caps a $279 million, five-year overhaul of the convention center. The 45,000 square feet of outdoor space was created as part of what is described as an adaptive reuse design of the old Cobo Arena.

General manager Thom Connors says the atrium, which is in the same spot as the old Cobo Arena, opens up new possibilities for more outdoor events.

"It's a large area that can be used for stand alone events or activities related to the events going on in Cobo Center," Connors said. "In fact, we've had some use for it already at some of our conventions this past year. We have activities booked up for it when the weather gets better."

Cobo Square also is envisioned as a place for activities between major events at Cobo Center, which is home to the annual North American International Auto Show.

"Get a breath of fresh air, see sunlight and feel more a part of the city rather than being boxed into a meeting room or an exhibit hall all day," Connors said.

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