With shovels in hand, Mario Lemieux as his management staff initiated the first official dig on the site of the upcoming arena slated for Fall 2010. The Penguins put up some really solid pics on their site of what the new house will look like, along with some video and commentary from Lemieux and Co.
Also, if you haven't done so already, vote for your favorite jersey. Thanks to Dunman for the contribution.
Read on for more...
The "real" reason for the construction, per the commentary from Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell.
“I am delighted to be a part of this historic event,” said Rendell. “Construction of this new multi-purpose arena will provide immediate economic stimulus by creating construction jobs, but more importantly, this arena will benefit residents for decades to come. In addition to keeping the Penguins in Pittsburgh, the arena will attract more shows and events because of improved performance space, seating and technology.”
And I can't lie, I got a little chuckle out of the last line in the article.
HOK Sport is the architect for the project and PJ Dick/Hunt Construction JV is the construction manager.
Maybe that's a new game for Wii where you hold a flash gun at the screen and shoot...well, never mind.
Pretty good article here from The Trib-Review highlighting the notion that Mellon Arena artifacts may go on sale to the public after the construction is complete and finalized on the new arena.
I don't know about you, but I'm definitely considering how much a set of Mellon Arena seats may go for. It'd look great in front of my TV on game night. Maybe I can hire the cotton candy and popcorn guy to walk up and down my hallway.