Landers Center Expansion: Latest Progress Update from Architect

The Landers Center expansion project in DeSoto County, Mississippi, is making significant progress. The project promises a transformative addition to the community by 2027.

With an $88 million budget, the project involves major renovations. These include a new theater, a luxury hotel, and structural enhancements designed to improve functionality and address safety concerns.

Recent updates from lead architect Doug Thornton highlight the construction phases and expected timelines. The team is also working to manage costs while overcoming market challenges.

Enhancing Community Spaces: What the Landers Center Expansion Includes

The Landers Center expansion will add almost 275,000 square feet of new space. This will help redefine the center as a hub for entertainment and tourism.

A new venue for the DeSoto Family Theater is one of the key additions. This will give local performing arts a dedicated space.

The standout feature is the planned seven-story, 240-room Embassy Suites by Hilton Hotel. This hotel will elevate the area’s lodging and hospitality options.

Breaking Ground on the Hotel

The hotel is set to break ground in May. It will extend the center’s appeal to tourists and business travelers.

The Embassy Suites will offer luxury amenities. This is expected to draw more visitors and boost local economic activity.

Strategic Updates and Construction Progress

Currently, the expansion is moving ahead steadily. Approximately 48% of the site work is completed.

The team has focused on dirt work, aiming for early June completion. This will allow foundational and steel construction to begin.

These core structural steps are essential to keeping the project on schedule.

Managing Costs Amid Market Challenges

The project team is using specific bid packages to manage costs. By dividing the project into smaller bids, they are balancing expenses and addressing material tariffs.

Thornton reported more contractor competition for these packages. This is helping with cost control despite fluctuating market conditions.

Prioritizing Safety and Pedestrian Experience

Safety enhancements are a main focus of the expansion strategy. The design team has added protective bollards and boulders to safeguard visitors.

These measures reflect a forward-thinking approach that values both function and security.

Improving Pedestrian Flow

To improve movement throughout the expanded center, the design team is removing columns in the northeast facade. This adjustment will enhance pedestrian flow without changing the building’s external appearance.

Such changes show the thoughtful planning behind the project.

Marking Milestones: The Path to 2027

The targeted completion date is late summer 2027. The Landers Center expansion aims to be one of the most ambitious community projects in DeSoto County’s recent history.

What to Expect Moving Forward

As dirt work finishes and construction advances, residents will see visible progress. Steel structures will rise, and spaces will become more defined.

Ongoing contractor interest should help maintain budget stability. Continued design adjustments will further improve safety and usability.

Conclusion: A Visionary Project for DeSoto County

The Landers Center expansion is more than just a construction project. It’s a new way of thinking about community spaces and how they serve people.

The project features bold designs and careful cost management. Strong safety measures are also in place.

These enhancements will bring new opportunities for cultural events and business growth. The improvements make the countdown to 2027 exciting for everyone in the region.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Architect gives update on Landers Center expansion progress