Washington Convention Center is the largest construction in the District of Columbia. It consists of six blocks with a massive distance spanning close to six soccer fields put end-to-end. The center consists of approximately 725,000 square feet in space for exhibit hall, 150,000 square feet in meeting rooms, and a ballroom consisting of 70,000 square feet.
The convention center has the latest technological advancement consisting of fiber-optic connection, computerized control systems for internal and external monitoring and additional satellite links. The center has adequate power supply to support itself. The challenge of the construction was its enormous size. Therefore, team consisted of designers and architectures in ensuring that the design was within schedule and scope.
There was a consultative process. Everyone participated, from the local leaders, federal officials to the president. Involvement of the community was necessary because the center occupied residential neighborhood. They monitored changes on construction with their effects to the schedule and costs. At the same time, the team had to create a large space for structures, concrete, excavations, steel works and foundation.
Another group looked at the internal structure such as electric, plumbing, mechanical, internal transportation and communication. The building reflected elegance African wood panel, expensive pieces of art works and dedicated technological facilities. Other groups concentrated on the interior and exterior works of the building. The construction team dealt with relocating, expanding the existing roads and connecting them to subways.
The structure has custom-made spanning façade throughout creating various wall conditions. The structure boosts of identical and shiny systems acting as the structural supports. The building achieves aesthetic transparency via the adoption of a three-diemnsional structure. There glass walls reflect curved and articulated designs. The beauty is captivating through the large entrances creating a lasting human experience. Washington Convection Center pride itself on latest structures consisting of glass façade.
Community involvement
Washington Convention Center occupies a busy residential and urban area. Most of the construction occupied underground so as not shadow the community. Therefore, the construction team engaged the community first in their plans. The building had to reflect the ideals of the residents.
They ensured that there were almost no disruptions to the normal traffic flows. The construction team ensured safe roads, clean and inviting environment to the residences. They constructed a through way under the convection to minimize traffic jams. Regular meetings kept everyone informed of the project progress. Clark team involved the community in job training opportunities. The community members provided services and business requirement for the construction workers.
Economic impacts
Washington Convention Center is a symbol of economic prosperity. It hosts business venues, tourists’ spots and a large historic landmark. The center derives its income from the direct consumption from the residents through the use of social amenities like hotels, retail shops and fast food joints among others. There are conference facilities booked for the next fifteen years. The center transformed Washington DC to one of the leading convention destinations in the world.
The center already created thousands of jobs receives millions of visitors and injects millions of dollars into the local economy. The center now hosts the prestigious American Veterinary Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Washington Convention Center has a competitive advantage through its fascinating location for people in the hospitality industry.