Philadelphia’s ‘answer to Lincoln Center’ to get major overhaul with new amenities

Though opened just a decade ago, Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center is slated for a major renovation with amenities that are likely to include an open-air restaurant, more bathrooms, and improved access between floors. Known as Philadelphia’s “answer to Lincoln Center,” the performance facility’s planned renovation will aim to make it more user-friendly and a more vibrant part of the neighborhood, extending offerings beyond performance times. (http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20110429_Philadelphia_s_Kimmel_Center_sets_stage_for_major_renovation.html)
May 18, 2011
Though opened just a decade ago, Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center is slated for a major renovation with amenities that are likely to include an open-air restaurant, more bathrooms, and improved access between floors. Known as Philadelphia’s “answer to Lincoln Center,” the performance facility’s planned renovation will aim to make it more user-friendly and a more vibrant part of the neighborhood, extending offerings beyond performance times. (http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20110429_Philadelphia_s_Kimmel_Center_sets_stage_for_major_renovation.html) Philadelphia architecture firm KieranTimberlake developed a master plan for the renovation that has yet to be priced out, but will likely cost tens of millions. New structures will be erected in Verizon Hall to help musicians hear each other better and to get more sound out to the audience. A 120-seat Wolfgang Puck franchise restaurant designed by restaurant interiors specialist Marguerite Rodgers Ltd. will open next spring in a renovated space along Spruce Street. The project is not yet fully funded, but about $14 million worth of work is imminent.

About the Author

Drew Ballensky

Drew Ballensky is general manager of Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.’s central U.S. facility in Iowa and company spokesman for Duro-Last’s cool roofing, sustainability and architectural education programs. He is past-president of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association and chairman of CFFA’s Vinyl Roofing Division. Drew earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University. Drew has over 29 years experience in business and industry in various engineering and managerial capacities. He has worked in the U.S. and Canadian operations for a major international manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, was a financial analyst with a major athletic apparel manufacturer and was an owner of a general contracting company.
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