Miami to build world-class performing arts center

Miami-Dade County approved $255 million for construction of the Miami Performing Arts Center, a two-structure development in downtown Miami designed by New Haven, Conn.-based Cesar Pelli & Associates. The first building will feature a 298,000-sq.-ft., 2,480-seat ballet and opera house, while the second structure will house a 198,000-sq.-ft., 2,200-seat concert hall. An elevated pedestrian bridge spanning Biscayne Boulevard will connect the buildings. A joint venture of Miami-based Odebrecht Construction Inc. and The Haskell Co., Jacksonville, Fla., will act as general contractor. Construction will begin this June and is expected to be complete in summer 2004.