US multi-industrial company Johnson Controls has struck a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks to become the official smart building partner for the Wisconsin Entertainment and Sport Center, the future home arena of the NBA basketball franchise.
As the first official founding partner of the venue, Johnson Controls will provide state-of-the-art technology solutions throughout the arena to enhance the fan experience, improve the building’s performance, reduce energy usage and reduce the arena’s environmental footprint.
Additionally, Johnson Controls will receive sponsorship rights and benefits including important media assets, arena signage and other team and building promotions.
Johnson Controls’ building, business and specialty systems will be managed on a unified, intelligent infrastructure including HVAC, building automation, security, lighting, fire protection and information technology.
“This is an absolutely historic day, not just for the Bucks and Johnson Controls but for the city of Milwaukee,” Bucks president Peter Feigin said. “Our ownership group is committed to building an arena that will be the gold standard for a sports and entertainment facility while also driving additional development and community growth throughout the region. We wouldn’t be able to accomplish those goals without the partnership and support of Johnson Controls. Together we’re going to build an incredible arena and an incredible future for our home city.”
The arena will serve as the centrepiece of a large development project spearheaded by the team's ownership to transform 27 acres of mostly vacant property into a retail and entertainment district in downtown Milwaukee.
The 714,000-square-foot venue is scheduled to open in fall of 2018, and will also host other sports and entertainment events.