news

Iron & Steel Technlogy Conference to return to Cleveland in 2015

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Steel really is making a comeback — especially to downtown Cleveland. No, ArcelorMittal is not planning a new mill at its complex in the Flats. But in the spring of 2015, some 8,000 steel industry participants are expected to attend the Iron & Steel Technology Conference at the Cleveland Convention Center, which is scheduled for completion this summer. Held by the Association for Iron and Steel Technology, (AIST), the event is returning to Cleveland after what will have been a nine-year hiatus following the event's last appearance here in 2006.

HIMSS Innovation Center slated for October opening in Cleveland

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Chalk one up for interoperability – hands-on interoperability. It is one of many gains HIMSS President and CEO H. Stephen Lieber envisions with the opening of the HIMSS Innovation Center in Cleveland, slated for October. Between the innovation center itself and its accompanying exhibition floor, the complex will occupy a total of 25,000 square feet on the fourth level – the entire top floor – of the Global Center for Health Innovation, which will house other big-name healthcare leaders and charter tenants, among them Cleveland Clinic, GE Healthcare, Johnson Controls, University Hospitals and Philips Healthcare. HIMSS has plans to double the size of the exhibition space by 2016.

Cleveland Clinic's 2013 Medical Innovation Summit To Be Held at Cleveland Medical Mart

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Clinic’s 11th Annual Medical Innovation Summit, one of the premier healthcare gatherings in the United States, will be held at the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, Oct. 14 to 16, 2013, marking the grand opening of downtown Cleveland’s newest medical showplace.

Philips Healthcare, University Hospitals partner for Cuyahoga County Medical Mart venture

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Philips Healthcare, a major maker of medical equipment, will partner with University Hospitals to showcase the latest imaging technology at Cuyahoga County's medical mart. The announcement today marks the signing of the fourth and fifth paying tenants at the downtown mart, part of a $465 million, taxpayer-financed convention center complex. It's the first announced collaboration between a health care system and a manufacturer.

Cleveland Medical Mart welcomes third tenant: Johnson Controls

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Johnson Controls, the global leader in building efficiency, will anchor Cleveland Medical Mart’s Clinical Spaces third floor, highlighting how integrated technologies impact the patient care experience and reduce operational and energy costs.

Cleveland: GE Healthcare, Cleveland Clinic in Med Mart

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald made a long-awaited announcement Wednesday afternoon, naming the first two "big-name" tenants for the Medical Mart. GE Healthcare and the Cleveland Clinic will be cornerstone players in the project. The big names add credibility to the showcase for medical products and technology set to open next year in tandem with the Cleveland Convention Center.

GE, Cleveland Clinic sign on to Cleveland medical mart

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

GE Healthcare Systems today became the first major health care company to publicly commit to Cuyahoga County's medical mart. The company announced it will showcase products related to breast cancer, Alzheimer's disease and heart disease in an interactive display. The Cleveland Clinic today also announced it has signed on to the $465 million, taxpayer-financed project, which includes a convention center beneath the downtown mall.

Cleveland Clinic, GE Healthcare join tenant roster for Cleveland medical mart

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With much fanfare, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald today announced that the Cleveland Clinic and GE Healthcare will be participating as tenants in the under-construction medical mart in downtown Cleveland. The announcement was made during the last day of the Cleveland Clinic Innovation Summit at the Hotel InterContinental on the Cleveland Clinic main campus. The summit brought more than 1,000 physicians, medical company executives and entrepreneurs from across the country to Cleveland.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center releases new promotional video

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center released a four-minute promotional video earlier today, including an extensive virtual tour of the themed spaces within the Medical Mart floors. The promotional video also contains interview segments with Jim Bennett, MMPI senior vice president, a 3D rendering of the new facility, and up-to-date construction site footage. The video is available on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBwN8Miwks0&feature=plcp

Ohio Optometric Association to move conference to Cleveland's new convention center

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Ohio Optometric Association's annual EastWest Eye Conference will move to the under-construction Cleveland Convention Center in 2013, 2014 and 2015. The optometrists' meeting will attract 1,500 attendees and 100 exhibitors, who are expected to book 1,125 room nights in downtown hotels, according to MMPI Inc., the developer and manager of the new trade show complex. The conference dates are Oct. 3-5, 2013; Oct. 9-11, 2014; and Oct. 1-4, 2015.

Cleveland's new convention center bags another health-related conference

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:00:00 -0500

The Cleveland convention center and medical mart has bagged another event. The 2014 CleanMed Conference & Exposition will be held at the under-construction trade show complex in downtown Cleveland May 12-16, 2014. The conference on environmental sustainability in the health care field is expected to attract 1,000 hospital administrators, physicians and other hospital staff and 100 exhibitors.

Cleveland Convention Center inks three-year deal with Ohio Music Education Association

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI) has announced a three-year agreement to host the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) Professional Development Conference at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (CMMCC) in downtown Cleveland in 2015, 2017, and 2019. The OMEA is the third largest of the 52 federated state affiliates of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). OMEA hosted 2,900 registered music educators and a total attendance of more than 9,000 at its 2012 annual conference, ranking it as one of the nation's largest state conferences. The OMEA Professional Development Conference will be held in Cleveland Feb. 5-7, 2015, Feb. 1-4, 2017, and Jan. 31-Feb. 2, 2019.

2014 Case Management Society of America Annual Conference and Expo Coming to Cleveland

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI) has announced that the 24th Annual Case Management Society of America (CMSA) Conference & Expo will be held at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (CMMCC) in downtown Cleveland, June 17 - 20, 2014. The CMSA Conference & Expo is expected to welcome more than 2,000 convention attendees to CMMCC for a four-day conference with additional pre-conference activities. CMSA is expected to utilize more than 100,000 gross square feet of exhibit space in the new Cleveland Convention Center, scheduled to open in July, 2013. The 2014 CMSA Conference & Expo is the largest healthcare association conference ever hosted in downtown Cleveland.

WKYC "Between the Lines" Medical Mart/ Convention Center update

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WKYC "Between the Lines" (July 22, 2012): It's one of the projects expected to bring more activity, business and energy into a revitalized downtown Cleveland. The Medical Mart/Convention Center is more than two-thirds built. And the $465 million dollar project's coming in ahead of time and at or under budget. The Medical Mart concept of a showcase/showplace for health care products is evolving. A big goal now is to get big companies to collaborate to exhibit the products together in the approporaite futuristic environment. Education as well as conventions will be a component of activity that takes place there. Conventions and exhibitors are being booked. About 40 percent of the space is spoken for. MMPI, the firm behind the project, is meeting with an advisory board of health care companies to design a facility that meets their needs. News reports about a lack of connected parking is raising some concerns. And a rival project in Nashville is still making some headway. What are the expectations and concerns for the project? Will it deliver what's expected? How will a giant park enhance the project and have value to the public? Tom Beres discusses these questions with Channel 3 Political Analysts Dennis Eckart and Mary Anne Sharkey and MMPI Vice President Jim Bennett on this edition of Between the Lines.

q & a: jim bennett, senior vp, cleveland med mart & convention center

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The economic impact of the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center is still being formalized. Will the million-square-foot meeting and tradeshow complex be marketed more toward conventioneers spending a couple of active days in Cleveland, or will emphasis be placed on the medical mart as a "learning center" for healthcare professionals? With these issues still coming into focus over a year out from the complex's projected opening, new senior vice president Jim Bennett believes that however the project is mapped, all roads will lead to Cleveland either for visitors arriving here for meetings and tradeshows or to see the latest in ground-breaking medical technology in a state-of-the-art setting. Bennett, a healthcare industry veteran and resident of Cleveland since 1982, was hired in April by developer MMPI Inc. to oversee the $465 million investment. The 235,000-square-foot medical mart being constructed on the northeast corner of St. Clair and Ontario is set to house permanent showrooms focused on healthcare information technology, medical devices, health education and more. The mart is connected to a convention center located at the city's Mall and making up three-quarters of the complex's overall square footage. The convention center will feature 30 meeting rooms and a 30,000-square-foot grand ballroom offering picturesque views of Lake Erie.

Cuyahoga County's new convention center is now expected to open early

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Cuyahoga County's new convention center is now expected to open July 1, 2013, two months ahead of schedule, county Executive Ed FitzGerald will announce today. The early opening would allow the exhibit hall with its meeting space and ballrooms beneath the downtown malls to welcome the National Senior Games next summer, and help establish the venue's reputation among the nation's event planners. "It's a perfect opening for the entire project," FitzGerald said during an interview Thursday. "The amount of positive publicity is enormous. It's worth millions and millions of dollars." Construction began in January 2011 on the $465 million, taxpayer-financed project, which includes a medical mart to showcase medical technology on the northeast corner of St. Clair Avenue and Ontario Street, and the connected convention center underground.

Medical Mart convention center 'topped out' in downtown Cleveland; $465 million site set to open 2013

Sat, 23 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Its skeleton is mostly buried, but Cuyahoga County's medical mart and convention center contains more steel than the skyscraper next door. Key Tower -- at 947 feet, the tallest building in Ohio -- weighs in at 11,800 tons of steel. The million-square-foot convention center complex is built from nearly 12,200 tons of steel. And if you laid the steel pieces end to end, they'd stretch 273 miles, all the way to Cincinnati.

Cleveland Medical Mart reaches crucial point in construction process with 'topping out' ceremony

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

It took 2,000 construction workers in all types of Cleveland weather 18 months to reach a special point in building the new Convention Center and Medical Mart project. Friday, the upper-most steal beam was placed on top of the Med Mart in a "topping out" ceremony. Construction workers signed the last steal beam, which was painted white. Minutes later, the beam was hoisted by a crane operator to the top of the Medical Mart, along with a fir tree.

MMPI, Cuyahoga County, and Turner host 'Topping Out' to commemorate steel completion

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, June 22, Cuyahoga County, Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI), and Turner Construction Company hosted a “Topping Out” ceremony and press conference to commemorate the completion of steel erection on Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center. Jim Bennett, MMPI senior vice president, served as emcee with brief remarks from Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald, City of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, and Dr. Toby Cosgrove from Cleveland Clinic.

New Cleveland convention center reaches milestone

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The $465 million convention and medical trade-show center under construction in Cleveland has reached a milestone, with a traditional topping out ceremony. Hundreds of hardhat workers watched Friday as a steel beam autographed by construction crews was raised in place by a crane. More than 12,000 tons of steel have gone into the downtown project.

Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center: By the Numbers

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A look at Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center construction: By the Numbers

Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society announces signed contract for 2015 Rubber Expo at Cleveland MMCC

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center adds senior staff and establishes Industry Advisory Board

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI) announced earlier today the addition of two senior management members to the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) operational team, naming Jim Bennett as Senior Vice President and Brian Milner as Director of Operations. Bennett and Milner will begin their duties immediately.

Construction Update - 04/02/12

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Construction crews continue to change the landscape of downtown Cleveland with visible progress on the Medical Mart facility. With steel erection completed, crews have been setting the 515 concrete exterior panels, beginning along the northern side of the future facility and now working on the west side. On the site of the future Convention Center, crews are making visible progress on structural steel erection on the Exhibit Hall roof. Turner Construction reports that three steel tree columns and box trusses were installed this week, upping the total to nine out of 20 massive support structures. With the installation of steel tree columns and box trusses, crews are also hanging steel columns and adding metal decking for the future Convention Center roof and Mall B surface on the center section just north of St. Clair Avenue.

The Return of the Comeback City

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

We've all heard the story. Cleveland, Ohio, like many other Rust Belt cities, has struggled mightily in the aftermath of the demise of heavy manufacturing. For those not paying attention, Cleveland would seem to be a doomed city destined for a continual decline. But this is not the case. Right now, the city of Cleveland is undergoing a dramatic transformation, the likes of which America hasn't seen since the rebirth of New York City in the early 1990s. Currently there is over $6 billion in new developments taking place in the core city, with more on the way.

Capitalizing on Cleveland's growing role as a visitor destination

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Between the new Horseshoe Casino Cleveland, Medical Mart and Convention Center, Aquarium, hotels, restaurants and other attractions there is more than $2 billion worth of visitor-related attractions that are coming on line. How to capitalize on this attention and make sure those visitors experiences are memorable ones is the focus behind a new effort revealed Tuesday by Positively Cleveland.

Midwest Magnified: Northern Ohio is sharpening its focus on innovative new meetings-friendly offerings

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Northern Ohio is a unique Midwestern region encompassing locales equipped for large-scale conventions, intimate retreats and everything in between. Cleveland is fast becoming a special niche market for medical meetings, and associations, corporate groups and regional gatherings have all found Akron, Toledo and other group-friendly destinations in the region to be easily accessible and full of the appropriate amenities for successful events.

Boutique hotels to bloom in Cleveland

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Small boutique hotels are popular in many American cities - and internationally. Now, several such hotel chains are planning to open facilities in downtown Cleveland. According to Downtown Cleveland Alliance President Joe Marinucci, Cleveland's new casino, medical mart, convention center and other downtown development are creating a new market for hoteliers.

Construction Update - 03/16/12

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On the Medical Mart, two of the most visible and dramatic signs of progress are the extensive metal decking work on the roof of the facility and the placing of the exterior pre-cast wall panels on the north side of the future structure. On the top floor of the Medical Mart, metal decking continues at the roof of the Service Penthouses and in the cantilevered showcase wings and at the Atrium Bridges. Meanwhile, on the north façade of the future Medical Mart, crews continue to place exterior wall panels. All of the 515 pre-cast wall panels have been fabricated and are ready for installation on the exterior of the building. On the site of the future Convention Center just north of St. Clair Avenue, crews have erected five of the 24 large steel box trusses, attaching them to the main tree columns. Turner Construction expects to complete 1-2 box trusses each week. The installation of the field trusses continues as well.

Construction Update - 03/12/12

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On the Medical Mart site, the Atrium Bridge installation and Metal decking continues at the roof of the Service Penthouses and in the cantilevered showcase wings. Concrete flooring has been poured and is now completed through the Penthouse level. The setting of the Medical Mart façade panels along the north side of the Mart continued this week. In the Exhibit Hall area just north of St. Clair Avenue, four of the 24 massive steel box trusses have been erected. The main tree columns in the Exhibit Hall continue to be erected in advance of the box trusses. Crews anticipate erecting 1-2 box trusses each week. The installation of the field trusses also began last week. The process should continue through May when the steel erection phase is slated for completion.

Construction Update - 02/23/12

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the majority of steel erection completed on the four-story Medical Mart complex, construction crews have been busily pouring concrete on all four levels of the facility. Crews completed the structural steel erection of the southeast showroom late last week, allowing for a concrete pour on the slab-on-metal deck at the south half of Showroom Level 3. Crews have been completing the metal deck detailing and installation of the shear studs on the Penthouse level, to be followed by concrete placements. Installation of supports and hangers for the plumbing, mechanical and electrical continues on Showroom Level 2.

Construction Update - 02/10/12

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Following the “Topping Out” ceremony recognizing the completion of steel erection on the Medical Mart on February 1, construction crews dismantled one of the cranes and completed the erection of the northeast showroom slabs last week and should complete the erection of the southeast showroom slabs shortly. Concrete for the slab-on-metal deck at the north half of Showroom Level 3 is scheduled for next week while reinforcing for the concrete floors is being placed on the south half of Showroom Level 3 with plans to make the concrete on the south half of Showroom Level 3 within the next several days.

"Topping Out" ceremony marks completion of Medical Mart steel erection 02/01/12

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On February 1, 2012, Turner Construction recognized the completion of steel erection on the Medical Mart by hosting a traditional “Topping Out” ceremony, hoisting the final steel beam to the top of the structure with a fir tree and an American flag affixed to the beam. “Topping Out” is an ancient European tradition symbolized by tying a fir tree to the top of a newly completed roof that has been long adopted by American steel workers on construction projects. “Topping Out” recognizes that the uppermost steel beam is in place and that the structure has reached its zenith with no loss of life. More than 200 on-site workers viewed the ceremony and were provided commemorative t-shirts at an onsite luncheon.

Westin Hotels to Make Debut in Cleveland, Ohio: The Westin Cleveland Convention Center opens in summer 2013 in Prime Downtown Location

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announced plans to introduce its popular Westin brand to Cleveland, Ohio. The Westin Cleveland Convention Center will open in summer 2013 in a prime location, adjacent to the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center complex. Owned by Sage Hospitality, the former Crowne Plaza will undergo a $64 million renovation prior to re-opening as a Westin. The Westin Cleveland Convention Center will offer 481 luxurious rooms, a full-service restaurant, 26,000 square feet of meeting facilities and the full suite of Westin signature amenities and services.

Construction Update - 01/13/12

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The visible and dramatic structural steel and metal deck erection at the Medical Mart continues with more than 40 ironworkers working in tandem with two large cranes lifting steel and metal decking from the east and west sides. The second and third of three sequences of truss members for the main atrium support system are scheduled to be hoisted into place later this week. Installation of metal decking and shear studs continues on numerous levels, as weather allows. The first Showroom Level concrete pour is also scheduled in the near future. Reinforcing for the concrete floors is being placed on the second half of Showroom Level 1 and the first half of Showroom Level 2.

Craig Thompson named Cleveland MMCC Convention Sales Director

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Craig Thompson was named Convention Sales Director for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC), it was announced January 6 by Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI). An Ohio native with more than 15 years of local and regional tradeshow industry experience, Thompson will be responsible for recruiting non-medical trade shows and conventions to Cleveland MMCC, including initiating, developing, and maintaining relationships with industry tenants, prospects, and associations.

Construction Update - 12/16/11

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The steel frame of the future Medical Mart continues to rise dramatically at the corner of St. Clair Avenue and Ontario Street, with crews already setting steel beams on the fourth level of the future structure. Structural steel and metal deck erection continues with two cranes working from the east and west sides, setting over 600 tons of steel with more than 40 ironworkers currently working on the Medical Mart steel erection. Two of the three sequences of truss members for the main atrium support system have arrived and are being assembled on the ground. The Medical Mart atrium trusses, measuring more than 200 feet long fully assembled, will be hoisted up in thirds beginning within the next week. Metal decking and shear studs are also progressing rapidly on multiple levels working toward conclusion in January 2012. Reinforcing for the concrete floors arrived earlier this week and the construction team will begin pouring the elevated floors next week.

Construction Update - 12/09/11

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On and under the future Mall C, wet weather has slightly hampered structural steel progress, but the construction team has completed the steel and 70% of the metal decking which becomes the support for the new Mall C. The team is continuing with masonry work at the north egress stairs. Under Lakeside Avenue, the team is installing rebar for the concrete column covering on the new columns supporting Lakeside Ave. Support framing along the south curb line is being erected in anticipation of the installation of winter weather enclosures as well.

Construction Update - 12/02/11

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Medical Mart continues to rise above the ground in dramatic fashion as steel erection and detailing continues on multiple levels. Metal decking has also started right behind steel erection on several levels with the first level of the metal deck pour scheduled within the next several weeks. On the future Convention Center site, steel detailing and metal decking is within a few feet of completion along the East Concourse with crews pouring the last 15 feet this week.

Former President Bill Clinton Talks about Economic Recovery and Cleveland

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE "NBC TODAY SHOW" (Today Books): Former President Bill Clinton spoke with Today's Ann Curry on November 8 about his new book "Back to Work". During the interview, the former President mentions both the Cleveland Clinic and the Cuyahoga Community College for their continuing efforts to retrain those who lost their jobs during the recession.

Construction Update - 11/28/11

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On the Medical Mart site, the construction team reports that structural steel erection at the Medical Mart continues with two cranes from the East and West sides, working toward completion by the end of January, 2012. The construction team has completed installation of the 120-foot-long trusses forming the roof of the future ballroom north of Lakeside Avenue. Decking, detailing, and reinforcing installation continues on the future Mall C. The last sequence of steel for the Mall C structure arrived on November 22. Installation continues for the remaining rebar required to complete the slab pours on Mall C next week. Demolition of the W.3rd Street ramp is complete and preparations are underway for the rebuilding of this ramp. On the future Convention Center site, crews finished the final section for the 35-foot-high structural wall that stretches nearly 600 feet from Public Auditorium to the future Medical Mart. The adjacent St. Clair Avenue was repaved, striped and opened to two-lane traffic on November 14.

Moving Medicine Forward: Re-energizing civic pride and bolstering economic growth

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM DESIGN DEVELOP CONSTRUCT (Winter, 2011 edition): Designed to bring buyers and sellers together, the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) is the world’s first market facility targeted specifically to the medical and healthcare industry. The state-of-the-art facility integrates state-of-the-art permanent showrooms with world-class convention and conference facilities in a single structure to uniquely meet the innovation, education and commerce needs of the medical marketplace.

Construction Update - 11/18/11

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The project continues in full swing with a focus over the next few months on structural steel erection and concrete work in the Medical Mart, Truck Dock, and Convention Center. The construction team has completed installation of the 120-foot-long trusses forming the roof of the future ballroom north of Lakeside Avenue. Decking, detailing, and reinforcing installation continues on the future Mall C. The first two Mall level deck pours are scheduled to be completed this week. On the future Convention Center site, crews finished the final section for the 35-foot-high structural wall that stretches nearly 600 feet from Public Auditorium to the future Medical Mart. The adjacent St. Clair Avenue was repaved, striped and opened to two-lane traffic late Wednesday afternoon.

Construction Update - 11/04/11

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The focus of construction on the project during the next few months will be on structural steel erection and concrete work in the Medical Mart, truck dock, and Convention Center. On the site of the future ballroom north of Lakeside Avenue, the construction team is 80% complete on the installation of 120-foot ballroom trusses with just six trusses remaining to be set. On the south end of the project, construction crews are pouring two 35-foot high walls this week with the final wall scheduled for next week on the massive 600-foot long foundation wall alongside St. Clair Avenue between the future Medical Mart and Public Auditorium.

Construction Update - 10/28/11

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On the future Medical Mart site at the corner of St. Clair and Ontario, the large middle mat pour consisting of more than 4,000 cubic yards of concrete, which equates to more than 400 truckloads, was placed on October 15. The concourse level structural deck that is above the lower mat in the Medical Mart was also poured in mid-October, marking the end of the structural concrete systems for the Medical Mart portion of the project. The construction team assembled the steel crane on the Medical Mart site. Steel erection began for the Mezzanine level with upper level steel erection scheduled to begin within the next week.

Construction Update - 10/07/11

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On the future Medical Mart site, the second of three large structural concrete mats (900 cubic yards of concrete) was placed early (beginning at 4:30 a.m.) on Saturday, October 1 (this date was changed due to the heavy rains). The team continues the upper mat forming and reinforcing steel placements for the last of three mass concrete placements. The large middle mat pour consisting of more than 4,000 cubic yards of concrete is scheduled for next weekend.

Construction Update - 09/29/11

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Structural steel erection continued at the east and west sides of the Ballroom, and the first of 30 main trusses was hung earlier this week. Each main truss measures 120 feet in length, spanning east to west across steel columns and will form the roof of the future Ballroom.

Construction Update - 09/21/11

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Steel erection continues north and south of Lakeside Avenue. Crews continue erecting steel and ballroom trusses in the future ballroom and meeting room areas north of Lakeside Avenue while on the future Convention Center site, structural steel erection in the East Concourse area started right on schedule on Tuesday, September 20.

Construction Update - 09/16/11

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Structural steel arrived on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center work site this week and the first erection of steel beams is underway north of Lakeside Avenue. The steel contractor has begun setting steel, including columns and trusses, in the new ballroom area. The trusses are 115 feet long and weigh as much as 70,000 lbs. There are 96 segments in all that comprise the 32 trusses (that is, each truss is made up of three segments).

Moment of silence at Medical Mart site: Workers pause to remember victims of 9/11

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WTAM-AM 1100: Work on the Medical Mart came to a halt Friday morning. At 8:45 a.m., Turner Construction halted all operations on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center job site to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Cleveland MMCC workers commemorate 9/11 anniversary with Moment of Silence

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, September 9 at 8:47 a.m. ET, Turner Construction temporarily halted all operations on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) job site to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and to pause and remember those who gave their lives on that day and those who continue to sacrifice for our freedom. The 9/11 Moment of Silence was called by three horn blasts from Carlos Figueroa, Jr., Turner site safety manager, suspending all work on the job with approximately 200 onsite workers shutting down equipment and suspending all operations for two minutes. Work resumed with the sounding of three additional horn blasts two minutes later.

Construction Update - 09/02/11

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Webcam has been reinstalled on the Standard Building at the corner of St. Clair and Ontario Streets. The Webcam provides an excellent overall view of the entire project and automatically provides hourly updates. The webcam is available to the general public on the Cleveland MMCC website at www.clevelandmedicalmart.com.

Medical Mart project gets first glimpse of steel

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Construction crews began installing nine new, taller columns beneath Lakeside Avenue this week. Old columns were removed months ago, so workers could dig a lower floor, said Jeff Appelbaum, the county's pointman for the project.

Construction Update - 8/25/11

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Crews began installing nine new columns underneath Lakeside Avenue. For the past two months, Lakeside Avenue has been supported on the western edge of the project by a series of beams and hydraulic jacks. The steel beams were recycled from the roof of the former Cleveland Convention Center. Crews removed nine existing columns to significantly increase the clearance depth under Lakeside Avenue, providing the necessary space to expand the truck dock and truck access into the new facility.

MMPI, Turner Construction Team Up to Help Local Cleveland Youth

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM TRADE SHOW NEWS NETWORK (TSNN): Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., which oversees the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, and Turner Construction, the project’s builder, have teamed up to help local Cleveland youth for growth opportunities.

New convention home luring industrial groups back

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: Cleveland is the place to be — at least if you are holding a big industrial trade show. That's the word from Positively Cleveland, the group that markets Clevelandas a tourism and convention destination, along with those who hold the shows themselves. Even two years before the city's new convention center is finished, big industrial organizations already are signing up to use it. And when they do, some shows will bring thousands of people to town, Positively Cleveland says.

Cuyahoga County's medical mart and convention center taking form

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The outlines of Cuyahoga County's $465 million medical mart and convention center are taking shape downtown. With all demolition and excavation work complete, construction crews are forming the foundations and walls of what will become more than 500,000 square feet of medical showrooms, convention space, meeting rooms and a grand ballroom.

Construction Update - 08/11/11

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Construction continues on Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center with 39 of the 66 caissons poured on the Convention Center site. Meanwhile, more than 800 yards of concrete foundation was poured under Lakeside Avenue and nine permanent columns under Lakeside Avenue will begin shortly.

MMPI, Turner team up to create opportunities for Cleveland youth

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

MMPI and Turner Construction have teamed up to create five current programs geared to Cleveland Municipal School District (CMSD) students and graduates. The five programs include UCIP-ASAP, Career Awareness for Middle Schools, CMSD High School Internship Program, the CMSD College Scholarship Program, and the CMSD Higher Education Co-op Program. These programs provide construction-related training and work experience for students ranging from seventh grade through college. These current training programs for CMSD students and graduates were recently presented to the Cuyahoga County Council and the City of Cleveland Employment, Affirmative Action and Training Committee.

NAHRO selects Cleveland for 2013 National Convention

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center has been awarded the 2013 National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) National Conference, scheduled for October 27-November 3, 2013. NAHRO is the nation’s leading housing and community development advocate for affordable housing.

OSAE selects Cleveland for 2012 Annual Convention

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The City of Cleveland has been awarded the 2012 Ohio Society of Association Executives (OSAE) Annual Conference and Marketplace, scheduled for July 25-27, 2012 at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center. “The Ohio Society of Association Executives is pleased with its selection of Cleveland for the site of its 2012 Annual Conference & Marketplace,” said Mark Glasper, OSAE Executive Director. “As the association of associations in Ohio, our event will draw executives from Ohio’s $850 million association management industry.”

Construction Update 7/8/11

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Interior demolition work in the existing Exhibit Halls C and D is approximately 95% complete. The Lakeside Avenue temporary steel support and column demolition project has been completed. The North bridge demolition has been completed and Mall C roof removal will commence once work is completed below the roof. Slab foundation work is scheduled to begin shortly, including the future elevator pits.

Construction Update - 6/30/11

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Mall B, crews have completed 11 caissons with drilling continuing. The pre-core drilling for all 66 future caisson locations has been completed. A caisson is a deep foundation support that is constructed by placing fresh concrete and reinforcing steel into a drilled shaft. These reinforced concrete piles are cast in holes of predetermined diameters and depths drilled through soil to reach bedrock.

MMPI Names Falanga President

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 11:00:00 -0500

MMPI announced that Mark Falanga, a 17-year veteran of the organization and accomplished industry leader, has been named president effective July 23. Falanga succeeds Christopher Kennedy, who has served as president since 2000 and recently announced his departure from the organization to focus on civic and philanthropic endeavors.

MMPI Names Maurer Chief Operating Officer

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:00:00 -0500

MMPI announced today that Myron Maurer, a 24-year veteran of the company, will assume the role of chief operating officer, effective July 23, 2011. In this newly created position, Maurer will be responsible for the day-to-day operations and management of MMPI’s properties throughout the United States, and its consumer and trade shows throughout the U.S. and Canada. He will report to Mark Falanga, who was recently named president of MMPI.

Construction Update - 6/23/11

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Mall B, the eighth Caisson was poured earlier this week, a deep foundation support that is constructed by placing fresh concrete and reinforcing steel into a drilled shaft. These reinforced concrete piles are cast in holes of predetermined diameters and depths drilled through soil to reach bedrock. Foundation work on the Concourse level of the future Convention Center continues with formwork for pilasters scheduled to begin shortly. A pilaster is a rectangular support that resembles a flat column.

Cleveland, Cuyahoga County officials give thumbs up to latest med mart plans

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Dump trucks still are parading through the downtown pit that will give rise to Cuyahoga County's new convention center, but officials already are debating finishing touches such as landscaping, lighting and sidewalks. Both governments got a look this week at renderings of the 1-million-square-foot complex, set to open in 2013. The Design Review committee recommended most of the design to the City Planning Commission, which on Friday approved the project, with the condition that MMPI, its architects and engineers continue to meet with the city to resolve issues. The commission's approval Friday gives MMPI the go-ahead to order materials, such as elm trees, and secure necessary building permits.

Construction Update - 6/16/11

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

North of Lakeside Avenue, the North Bridge demolition continued on Mall C and is now 95% complete. Debris removal will continue. Interior demolition is 85% complete in existing Exhibit Halls ‘’C’’ and ‘’D’’ on the lower level. Underneath Lakeside Avenue, temporary steel support of the roadway continues with targeted column demolition scheduled for next week. Mall C demolition continued with additional roof removal continuing this week. Micro-pile work continues in the Ballroom area.

Cuyahoga County releases new images of medical mart and convention center, plus a first look at expansion

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: It's never too soon to think about the future. Plans for the $465 million project to build a medical mart and a new convention center in downtown Cleveland are ready for final review by the Downtown and Flats Cleveland Design Review Committee and City Planning Commission. But even before the project is built, Cuyahoga County and its business partner, MMPI Inc. of Chicago, are looking at a potential future expansion. Plans released today by the county are intended to give a rough idea of what a medical mart expansion might look like if the dual facility replaced the current county administration building at Ontario Street and Lakeside Avenue.

Headline News 06/09/11

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WKSU-FM – NPR: Governor John Kasich may be looking at medicine as key to Ohio’s recovery and long-term economic health. The governor says he met with executives from Ohio’s top medical centers, including the Cleveland Clinic, the Ohio State Medical Center and University Hospitals in Cincinnati last week. They talked about what the governor wants to see Ohio do to create jobs related to health care and medical research, technology and manufacturing. A similar regional corridor is being developed in northeast Ohio, with the Medical Mart exhibition complex in downtown Cleveland anchoring medical-related research, development and marketing efforts.

Construction Update - 6/9/11

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Crews have begun installing caissons, driving down the large, four-foot diameter structures more than 150 feet until they can be locked into the bedrock. The second caisson was completed earlier this week. Pre-cores for caissons continue with 60 of the 66 completed and more than 100 of the 240+ micropiles have also been completed.

Regions hope industry clusters will draw jobs

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM USA TODAY: Alex Nudelman, a strapping 49-year-old, confidently pushes buttons on a computer-controlled milling machine and suggests it's ready to sculpt a small piece of metal. His instructor stops him, noting Nudelman has not programmed in all the tools needed to shape the metal block. A journeyman autoworker who was laid off in 2009, Nudelman is taking a community college class here so he can work on the more sophisticated gear powering the region's growing cluster of medical device makers. If all goes well, he may soon be churning out spinal implants instead of seat brackets. "I'm trying to compare the new technology with my old experience, and sometimes it's helpful, and sometimes" it isn't, Nudelman says. But, the Russia native adds, blue eyes brightening, "It's the future."

Regions hope industry clusters will draw jobs

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM USA TODAY: Northeast Ohio is among a growing number of regions that are combating the loss of traditional factory jobs by developing industry clusters in fields such as biomedicine, renewable energy and aerospace. Besides medical devices, the Cleveland area — a more than century-old stronghold for auto, rubber and glass making — aims to carve out niches in clean energy and flexible electronics. Ground was broken early this year on the $465 million Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, the world's first marketplace for medical industry buyers and sellers.

The Fight for Top Talent

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

IN PBS: Tonight`s "Beyond the Scoreboard" looks at the financial impact when high-priced talent moves, in this case, the defection of LeBron James to Miami. How is Cleveland one year later? Rick Horrow, sports business analyst, CEO of Horrow Sports Ventures, says that Cleveland one year later is just fine. Fred Nance, an attorney with Squire Sanders, indicates that there is $7 billion in new construction, not bad for a middle market emerging from a recession. Among the projects are a $600 million casino, the $450 million Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, and the Flats are in the midst of a $250 million redevelopment with a hotel and retail projects. Cleveland is doing just fine without LeBron James.

Matchmaker event draws small businesses

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Representatives from more than 150 small businesses met last month with companies working or hoping to work on the medical mart complex under construction downtown. Forty contractors attended the outreach event, the sixth hosted by developer MMPI of Chicago. So far, small businesses make up about 36 percent of the workforce. Construction manager Turner Construction plans to award eight bid packages next month to contractors that are partnering with more small businesses.

Construction Update - 6/2/11

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Mall C demolition is roughly 95% complete with the foundations for the East Stair Tower currently being removed. Interior demolition has passed the halfway mark on the existing Exhibit Halls ''C'' and ''D'' on the lower level of Mall C. On the former Mall B, crews have completed more than 50 pre-cores for caissons with caisson drilling beginning earlier this week.

Clearing the Way

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION RECYCLING: One of the largest construction projects currently in progress in the U.S. is the $465 million Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (MMCC) in downtown Cleveland. The project, being managed by MPPI, is working to obtain LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. To make way for the 1 million-square-foot facility, five buildings needed to be demolished. They included a parking garage, Sportsmans Restaurant, the Court Annex Building, the Chicago Title Building and the 113 Building – an 8-story building in the center of a business district. The demolition schedule has been aggressive.

q & a: tony prusak, director of convention sales for medical mart & convention center

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM FRESH WATER: As Downtown bustles with construction at the site of the future Medical Mart and Convention Center (MMCC), a different sort of energy bubbles a few blocks away at the offices of Merchandise Mart Properties Inc. (MMPI). The private management organization is tasked with filling the Medical Mart with tenants and booking events for the new Convention Center well in advance of its 2013 completion.

Construction Update - 5/26/11

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Mall C demolition is roughly 95% complete with the foundations for the East Stair Tower to be removed by early next week. Interior demolition is 50% completed on the existing Exhibit Halls ‘’C’’ and ‘’D’’ on the lower level of Mall C. On the former Mall B, crews have completed more than 50 pre-cores for caissons with caisson drilling underway. More than 60 micro-piles are complete. Demolition continued on Mall B next to Public Auditorium. Metal sheeting continued along St. Clair Avenue, moving westward, with this activity expected to be completed by next week. With the sheeting work complete, crews will now begin excavation down to finish exhibit hall floor. Continued demolition of the topping slab and 4’ interstitial sand volume, this work is approximately 95% complete. The temporary construction ramp being constructed will extend from the Exhibit hall floor to Lakeside Avenue.

Downtown’s landscape is changing dramatically as demolition continues on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center worksite

Sat, 21 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WTAM-AM 1100: Newsradio WTAM 1100 received a tour of the job site, and found it a beehive of activity, with crews using heavy equipment and working in many locations. On the east side of the site, the separation of the Public Auditorium connector which was built in the 1960s had been completed, and is ready for demolition. The space will open up a dramatic view of Lake Erie. In three months, crews have demolished the Justice Center parking deck, the Chicago Title and County Annex buildings, and the Sportsman’s Restaurant. Demolition is also proceeding on schedule on the Convention Center and Malls B and C. No less than 95% of the debris from the facility is slated for recycling and reuse, including a variety of materials such as metal, tin, aluminum, copper, brass, and concrete.

Construction Update - 5/19/11

Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday, May 18, MMPI, along with Turner Construction Company, Minority Business Solutions, and North Coast Minority Media hosted an SBE Bid Package Event at Public Auditorium to coincide with the release of BP-22 (Painting and Wallcovering), BP-23 (Carpet), BP-24 (Ceramic & Quarry Tile), BP-25 (Terrazzo), BP-26 (Interior Glass), BP-27 (Ornamental Iron & Railings), BP-28 (Carpentry, including rough, finish, millwork, install doors/frames/hardware, toilet partitions, toilet accessories, lockers), and BP-47 (Site Work, including site earthwork, site concrete, site utilities, asphalt, and landscaping).

Construction Update - 5/12/11

Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The demolition and haul out of materials and debris from the five buildings on the future Medical Mart site has been completed. The 113 Building was demolished in April, the last structure to be demolished at the corner of St. Clair and Ontario. In three months, crews demolished the Justice Center parking deck, the Chicago Title and County Annex buildings, the Sportsmans Restaurant, and the 113 Building. Soldier pile installation has been completed around the former 113 Building while backfilling, lagging and tie-backs continue.

Dr. Holly Wyneski named to IMMPA Advisory Board

Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Holly Wyneski was recently appointed to the Advisory Board of the International Medical Meeting Professionals Association (IMMPA). Dr. Wyneski is a urologist at Southwest Urology, a practice consisting of eight urologists based in Middleburg Heights, Ohio with additional offices and surgery centers throughout Northeast Ohio. She is board-eligible and has passed Part 1 for the American Board of Urology certification and is a member of many medical societies including the American Urological Association and the Ohio Urological Society.

Vision of a gleaming downtown Mall is nearing a two-month, make-or-break deadline for engineering studies

Sat, 07 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The designers of the new Cleveland convention center and medical mart envision a lively makeover of the three-block downtown Mall with gardens, sport courts, reflecting pools, outdoor stages, public restrooms and fancy lighting. Extra design work is needed to plan water lines, a pump room, electrical hookups and other utilities required to support the amenities on the Mall’s surface, which will double as the green roof of the convention center. Last year, Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson appointed 15 sports, foundation and real estate executives to a new Group Plan Commission to shepherd enhancements to the Mall and other public spaces around the convention center.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Jobsite Celebrates 100 Days of No Time Lost Due to Accident

Thu, 05 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM CONSTRUCTION SUPERINTENDENT: Turner Construction Company, the design-build contractor for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC), hosted an onsite BBQ luncheon Friday, April 29 for contractors and onsite construction workers to celebrate the first 100 days of construction with no lost time due to accident. More than 200 workers enjoyed the festivities on the Cleveland MMCC construction site, commemorating a total of 136,165 man hours completed during the first 100 days on the job with no time lost due to accident.

Construction Update - 5/5/2011

Thu, 05 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Demolition of the 1964 Public Auditorium addition was completed earlier this week as crews demolished the last remaining structure. The balance of remaining demolition on the project is contained in the southeast corner of the job site. More than 95% of the demolition is complete on most areas of the job site, including Mall C roof demolition, Exhibit Halls C and D on the lower levels, and the Mall B roof demolition. The demolition of the topping slab is 85% completed. Backfilling of the future Medical Mart building location is underway. Soldier pile installation has been completed around the 113 Building.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center job site celebrates 100 days of no time lost due to accident

Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Turner Construction Company, the design-build contractor for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC), hosted an on-site BBQ luncheon Friday, April 29 for contractors and on-site construction workers to celebrate the first 100 days of construction with no lost time due to accident. More than 200 workers enjoyed the festivities on the Cleveland MMCC construction site, commemorating a total of 136,165 man hours completed during the first 100 days on the job with no time lost due to accident.

Convention center developers aim to surpass expectations

Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Developers of Cuyahoga County's medical mart and convention center anticipate a successful venture. MMPI executives predict the complex will lure 60 medical conventions and 100 smaller health care meetings a year, populating downtown with 300,000 annual visitors. They project each visitor will go through $1,100 while here, generating $330 million in direct spending for the local economy. And each of those dollars will be spent again and again in local businesses, ramping up the total economic impact to $990 million per year.

Brian Casey Heads to Cleveland

Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM HOME FURNISHINGS BUSINESS: Brian Casey is resigning his post as president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority because he has been named general manager of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center. In his new position, Casey will be responsible for attracting trade show business to the facility, as well as potential clients and events for the Cleveland Medical Mart. He will also oversee all departmental functions including construction, operations, finance, and leasing, while implementing the strategic positioning and marketing plans for the facility, its tenants and trade shows.

Downtown Cleveland hotels pin their hopes on convention center, casino, medical mart projects

Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: High-rolling projects from a casino to a new convention center could push hotel occupancy in downtown Cleveland to levels not seen in more than a decade. That's what hotel managers are hoping, at least, with construction under way on a $350 million casino on Public Square and a $465 million convention center and medical mart in the heart of the city. Consultants say downtown Cleveland could become more stable, thanks to the first phase of a casino set to open next year and a convention center and medical mart -- a medical-device showplace -- to debut in fall 2013.

Celebrating a resurgence in Cleveland?

Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MIDWEST REAL ESTATE NEWS: Commercial real estate brokers who do business in Cleveland say that there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about this Midwest industrial-anchored city. For instance, the massive, and definitely high-tech Medical Mart project is now underway. And the city is already home to the esteemed University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic. The Medical Mart project includes a new convention center and a sprawling marketplace; it’s a bit like Chicago’s famed Merchandise Mart, only focusing on medical and health-related innovations.

Community Outreach Update - 4/29/11

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

MMPI has hired the joint venture of Minority Business Solutions (MBS) and North Coast Minority Media LLC (NCMM) to serve as the Compliance Monitoring Coordinator for SBE and Workforce Utilization team during the construction of the project. MMPI, in cooperation with Turner Construction, Cuyahoga County, and the City of Cleveland, created a scope of work and a request for proposals.

Construction Update - 4/27/11

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

With the 100-day no lost time worker safety milestone approaching on Friday, crews working on Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center have passed the 95% mark on demolition of the old Convention Center. The East Stair Tower and Loading Dock Connection at Lakeside Avenue are the lone remaining areas for demolition north of Lakeside Avenue and are slated for demolition within the next week. Interior demolition continues in the existing Exhibit Halls C and D on the lower level with more than 90% of the demolition completed. On the south side of Lakeside Avenue, the Mall B rooftop demolition has passed the 95% mark while continued demolition of the topping slab is 75% completed.

Med Mart crews eye recycling goal: Some materials to be used at new complex

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Instead of using stone tools, these modern-day mound-builders operate backhoes, cranes and 100 trucks, the latter of which are loaded with concrete, soil or other materials that are hauled across downtown daily from the construction site of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center.

Construction Update - 4/22/11

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The demolition of the 113 Building was completed two weeks ago, the last structure of the five buildings scheduled for demolition on the West Block, located at the corner of St. Clair and Ontario. In three months, crews demolished the Justice Center parking deck, the Chicago Title and County Annex buildings, the Sportsmans Restaurant, and the 113 Building. Haul out activities continues and foundation demolition is scheduled to begin shortly.

Medical Mart construction sets recycling bar high

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WKYC-TV 3: CLEVELAND -- Before construction crews can build a new convention center to be combined with the Medical Mart, they must tear down and dismantle the old one. MMPI, the project developer, is committed to recycle as much of the demolished building materials as possible. The goal is to recycle and reuse at least 95 percent of the concrete, metal and other building materials and equipment being deconstructed. The 95 percent recycling rate would be a construction record for a big project in Northeast Ohio, according to Michele Kilroy, of the Northeast Ohio Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council.

Precision Environmental sets the stage for construction of

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Among the rubble, dirt paths and dump trucks, more than 200 construction workers perform the challenging, yet crucial, services of asbestos abatement and selective demolition in the heart of downtown Cleveland. About 110 of those hard-working men and women are from Precision Environmental Company, a DiGeronimo Company that provides abatement and specialty construction services in various markets. Since January 3, 2011, Precision has been laying the foundation work of the world’s only facility targeted specifically to the medical and healthcare marketplace, Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC).

Construction Update - 4/14/11

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The demolition of the 113 Building was completed last weekend, the last structure of the five buildings scheduled for demolition on the West Block, located at the corner of St. Clair and Ontario. In three months, crews demolished the Justice Center parking deck, the Chicago Title and County Annex buildings, the Sportsmans Restaurant, and the 113 Building. Haul out activities will continue for the remainder of the week and foundation demolition is scheduled to begin next week.

Construction Update - 3/24/2011

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The landscape of downtown Cleveland changed dramatically again this week as demolition continues aggressively on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center worksite. The most stunning views of the job site are along Ontario Street as crews began demolition of the 113 Building and Sportsmans Restaurant last Saturday morning, March 19.

A sustainable effort: Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center pursuing LEED certification

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Since the onset of planning for the facility, MMPI has aggressively implemented its long-standing practice of sustainability and protection of the environment into the design, construction, and operation of Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MCCC).

Brian Casey named General Manager of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

CHICAGO—MMPI is pleased to announce Brian Casey has been named General Manager of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center, effective May 2, 2011. As General Manager, Casey will be responsible for attracting trade show business to the facility, as well as potential clients and events for the Cleveland Medical Mart. He will also oversee all departmental functions including construction, operations, finance, and leasing, while implementing the strategic positioning and marketing plans for the facility, its tenants and trade shows.

Construction Update- 3/17/11

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Rooftop demolition on Malls B and C is nearing completion. Demolition of the Mall C roof north of Lakeside Avenue is approximately 90% complete and, on the south side of Lakeside Avenue, the demolition of the Mall B roof is approximately 60% complete.

Construction Update- 3/10/11

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Construction crews continue significant demolition on Malls B and C as large sections of the mall roof have been completely removed. Excavation equipment is working on the floor of the former Convention Center on both sides of Lakeside Avenue.

Black Diamond Video is Charter Tenant at Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MORNINGSTAR/BUSINESSWIRE: Black Diamond Video’s Integrated Digital Surgical Suite (IDSS) will be housed within BDV’s permanent showroom at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC).

BlueStar Joins the Vanguard at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

From VERTICAL SYSTEMS RESELLER (VSM): BlueStar will join a select group of companies as a tenant in the new Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center. Designed to foster a collaborative environment for medical industry buyers and sellers, the Medical Mart is the world’s only merchandise and trade show facility targeted specifically at the medical and healthcare industries. It represents a significant step forward in the medical merchandising field, as well as a substantial resource for northeastern Ohio and the entire Great Lakes region. BlueStar’s invitation to be part of the facility’s launch represents a considerable opportunity for the company and its reseller partners

Construction Update - 3/03/11

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

More than 200 construction workers are currently on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center job site, covering nearly 1 million square feet. MMPI, Minority Business Solutions (MBS), and Turner Construction Company report a current SBE participation rate of 36.03%,...

Meet the Tenants at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM TODAY’S MEDICAL DEVELOPMENTS: The Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center showrooms will represent a broad spectrum of the healthcare market including device development and design, information technology, facility design and infrastructure, medical products, education and communication sectors as well as some of the nation’s most prestigious healthcare providers.

Construction Update - 02/24/11

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Demolition continues to be the big story this week as giant football-field sized holes have appeared on what used to be Malls B and C. Crews continue to demolish the rooftop, exposing significant portions of the Convention Center and large meeting halls.

Suburban residents have stake in Medical Mart

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE STRONGSVILLE POST: The Medical Mart may be located in downtown Cleveland, but make no mistake about it, residents of the outlying suburbs have a stake in the project. That's how Dennis Madden, executive director of the $465 million publicly funded project opened his presentation to the Rotary Club of Strongsville at its weekly meeting on Friday, Feb. 11.

Cuyahoga County annex razed for medical mart project

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: A 170-foot-tall crane took a 6,000-pound wrecking ball to the bland Cuyahoga County annex building this week, clearing the way for a modern medical mart of glass and pre-cast concrete.

Construction Update - 02/17/11

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Construction continues on schedule on the project as more than 200 construction workers continue to work on site.Building demolition update: In January, crews began by demolishing the Justice Center Parking Garage and then completed demolition of the Chicago Title Building...

Work underway on Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center in Ohio

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WORLD CONSTRUCTION NETWORK: Work on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) has commenced with the crews started demolition work on convention centre in Cleveland, Ohio.

Cleveland's medical mart progresses in a mess of metal and concrete

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: In the lamplight, the site looks like modern art. Twisted metal gleams. Rods drip with icicles, frozen with water construction crews sprayed to keep down the dust. Concrete that once housed Cuyahoga County offices is piled into mountains. More than 95 percent of the rubble will be recycled or reused, as the Ontario Street lot becomes a four-story showplace of medical technology. As part of the county's taxpayer-financed project, the medical mart will connect to an L-shaped convention center beneath Malls B and C.

ASM International Signs LOI with Cleveland's New Medical Mart and Convention Center

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM BIOSPACE NEWS: ASM International will join 57 Medical Mart tenants and 31 conferences, conventions, and trade shows as part of a first-of-its-kind facility in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. This space is in addition to the newly renovated ASM Headquarters location.

Weekly Construction Update - 2/10/2011

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Crews completed demolition of the Chicago Title Building last Saturday and are now separating the debris into concrete, metal, and other products for recycling. More than 95% of the demolished building residue will be reused, including the concrete rubble and...

Invacare Joins Cleveland Medical Mart

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM ADVANCE MAGAZINE: Invacare Corporation is taking its history of healthcare innovation to the first-of-its-kind Medical Mart project in Cleveland, Ohio. Slated to open in 2013, the Cleveland Medical Mart will be the world's only facility targeted specifically to the medical and healthcare industries. Invacare will use Medical Mart to highlight the value of home healthcare: it is patient preferred, has better clinical outcomes and is cost-effective.

Weekly Construction Update - 2/4/2011

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

More than 200 construction workers are currently on site. Since January 3, the construction crews have been preparing the entire 1 million square foot area for demolition and abatement, including clearing off the surface of the historic Cleveland malls, installing..

The New Medical Mart

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS: Last month, the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center broke ground on what is expected to be the new cornerstone of the city's convention and medical communities.

Ground Broken for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM TRADESHOW EXECUTIVE: Ground was broken January 14 on the new Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center complex, which will begin hosting trade shows in 2013. More than 600 guests attended the ceremony where Chris Kennedy, president of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc., and other dignitaries formally kicked off the four-story, 235,000 square foot Medical Mart project. Kennedy also announced a list of 57 companies that had signed on as charter tenants of the venue. The adjacent lakefront convention center will offer 230,000 square feet of Class-A exhibit space and 90,000 square feet of meeting rooms.

Northern Ohio: Ohio for Miles

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MEETINGS FOCUS: Northern Ohio stretches along Lake Erie from Cleveland, hub of the northeast with its growing medical, biotech and export industries, to Toledo in the west. Conveniently located in between are the outdoor playgrounds of the Lake Erie Shores and Islands. The region is abuzz with change. It will be welcoming two of four Ohio casinos, while two high-profile attractions, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, have both announced expansion plans, and theme parks and attractions have also been growing.

The Medical Mart & Convention Center An innovative, state-of-the-art idea creates jobs and strengthens NEO's economy

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc., and the leadership of Cuyahoga County are changing the face of downtown Cleveland and the direction of Northeast Ohio with the new Medical Mart and Convention Center.

Weekly Construction Update - 01/27/11

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Crews completed removal of topsoil from Mall C. Demolition of the loading dock is scheduled to begin within the week.Top soil removal continues on Mall B with demolition of the roof scheduled to begin within the next several weeks.Abatement work...

Cleveland Med Mart Breaks Ground; New Tenants, Events Lined Up

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM TSNN NEWS: Five years after MMPI signed on to help the Cleveland Medical Mart and new convention center start the road to becoming a realized project, ground was broken in mid-January in front of a crowd of 600 business, civic, community and political leaders. Ohio Gov. John Kasich, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald and Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, as well as MMPI President Chris Kennedy, were on hand for the groundbreaking ceremony.

Cleveland Planning Commission approves medical mart, calls for vibrant downtown mall

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The Cleveland City Planning Commission signed off Friday on designs for the downtown medical mart and convention center. Seconding the opinion of its advisory board, the panel also withheld approval for the park-like malls that cover the underground convention center, asking Cuyahoga County and its private partner, Chicago-based MMPI, to reevaluate site lighting, public art and a barrier to keep trucks from driving up an incline. "We still have a lot of things we need to fine tune," said commission Chairman Anthony Coyne. The planning commission also wants MMPI to consider improving the buildings' energy efficiency, swapping a seasonal canopy for a permanent one and locating a medical mart coffee shop next to the mall. The goal is to make the mall a vibrant gathering spot.

Cleveland planning board OKs medical mart design

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM ASSOCIATED PRESS: The Cleveland City Planning Commission has OK'd designs for a long-awaited convention and medical trade-show center downtown. Officials broke ground on the $465 million project earlier this month.

Tennessean says Cleveland 'scores first' in med-mart battle

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM FRESHWATER CLEVELAND: Writing for the Tennessean, business health care reporter Getahn Ward claims that "Cleveland scores first in medical mart race with Nashville." Following a momentous ground breaking where a laundry list of prospective tenants, conferences, conventions and trade shows planned for the $465 million mart and convention center were announced, Ward writes that Cleveland "scored major points" in the med-mart public relations battle.

Ground Broken on Cleveland Center

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM NEW JERSEY COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ALLIANCE: With a ceremonial groundbreaking, work is officially underway on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Developed on behalf of Cuyahoga County by Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., a division of Vornado Realty Trust, the $465 million project has already attracted commitments from a lengthy list of convention planners as well as businesses hoping to pre-lease space.

Ground Broken on Cleveland Center

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM COMMERCIAL PROPERTY EXECUTIVE: With a ceremonial groundbreaking, work is officially underway on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Developed on behalf of Cuyahoga County by Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., a division of Vornado Realty Trust, the $465 million project has already attracted commitments from a lengthy list of convention planners as well as businesses hoping to pre-lease space. Crews are at the ready to lay the groundwork for the demolition of five buildings, abatement and other such preparation activities to make way for Cleveland MMCC. The development will encompass the 235,000 square-foot, four-story Medial Mart for the display of cutting-edge technology and products in the healthcare market, and will sit adjacent to the 230,000 square-foot Convention Center, which will include 90,000 square feet of dedicated meeting space and sit underneath the historic Cleveland malls.

Officials Break Ground for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MEDICAL MEETINGS: Government and convention center officials were on hand for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center on January 14. The project will be completed in fall 2013.

Cleveland Breaks Ground on New Medical Mart, Convention Center

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS MIDWEST: Local officials celebrated construction of the much-anticipated Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center project in downtown Cleveland during a ceremonial groundbreaking on Jan. 14, Positively Cleveland announced last week. In attendance were Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald, Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, as well as Chris Kennedy, president of the project's developer, Chicago-based MMPI, who announced that 57 companies intend to lease space in the medical mart. Among them: national companies like Invacare Corp., Steris Corp. and Trinity Furniture, as well as local organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University, Cuyahoga Community College and University Hospitals.

Invacare Joins Cleveland Medical Mart Project

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MOBILITY MANAGEMENT: Invacare Corp. will be part of a new healthcare-focused facility that will combine showrooms, tradeshow exhibit space and conference space in Cleveland. Named the Cleveland Medical Mart, the project is due to open in 2013. The Medical Mart will include permanent showrooms that display healthcare technology from a number of medical fields, including cardiology, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, imaging, healthcare IT, medical devices and, of course, DME.

The medical mart gets moving

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The remaking of downtown Cleveland is under way. Friday morning, civic, business and political leaders joined top executives of Chicago-based MMPI at a ceremonial groundbreaking for the long-discussed medical mart and convention center project. Admit it: There's a part of you that feared the day would never come.

Invacare joins Medical Mart movement

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM HME NEWS: A familiar name in the HME industry announced last week that it’s throwing its weight behind the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC). Invacare has signed a letter of intent to join the downtown marketplace, which will include a Medical Mart (235,000 square feet of showroom space for manufacturers and service providers); a trade-show facility; and a conference center. “We are proud to be a healthcare company based in Cleveland and there is no better way to show our dedication to the city and the healthcare industry than to give our support to the Medical Mart,” stated Chairman Mal Mixon in a release.

Dozens of new trade shows signed for Cleveland Convention Center

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM REAL ESTATE EXAMINER: Today, it’s a construction site covered with heavy equipment and snow, but in 2013, with a little luck, Cleveland and Cuyahoga County citizens will be attending the grand opening of their new convention center. At a ceremonial ground breaking today, city, county and state officials gathered to celebrate and memorialize the actual start of work on the project.

Medical Mart groundbreaking! Work to be done in September of 2013

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WTAM-AM 1100: Ohio Gov. John Kasich has helped launch work on a major project in Cleveland with a promise to cooperate in helping revive the city's downtown. Kasich, new Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald and Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson turned ceremonial shovelfuls of dirt Friday to kick off construction of a long-awaited Medical Mart and convention center. Gov. Kasich says Cleveland has an unbelievably strong medical community, and now the city will be able to use that asset to its best advantage.

Cleveland: Groundbreaking for $465M Medical Mart

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WKYC-TV 3: After five years of discussions, debate and controversy, the Medical Mart Convention Center project had its ceremonial groundbreaking to kick off the project. And there's an unexpected problem. It may be too small. A who's who of officeholders grabbed shovels and tossed dirt.

Leaders Commit to Medical Mart at Groundbreaking

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

From WJW-TV 8 FOX: One of Cleveland's most anticipated downtown construction projects, that has been talked about for years, is now officially underway. A ceremonial groundbreaking for Cleveland's new Medical Mart and convention center was held Friday morning. City, county and state leaders dug shovels into dirt to mark the construction of a project that's been five years in the making. Actual construction began on Jan. 3.

Cleveland medical mart talks up tenants on groundbreaking day

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM CLEVELAND CRAIN'S BUSINESS: Cleveland and Cuyahoga County officials shovel dirt at the site of the medical mart and convention center. From left: Cleveland City Council president Martin Sweeney; County Council president Ellen Connally; County Executive Ed FitzGerald; Chris Kennedy, president of developer MMPI; Cleveland mayor Frank Jackson; County prosecutor Bill Mason; City Councilman Joe Cimperman; and Ohio governor John Kasich. Dirt was turned, photos were taken and about 600 community and business leaders applauded and cheered.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Announces Tenants at Groundbreaking Ceremony

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM BUSINESSWIRE: In front of a capacity crowd of more than 600 business, civic, community, and political leaders, MMPI President Chris Kennedy introduced the charter tenants for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) at the ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony on the historic Cleveland Malls. Fifty-seven (57) Medical Mart tenants and 31 conferences, conventions, and trade shows were unveiled for Cleveland MMCC, scheduled for completion in Fall, 2013.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Announces 88 Charter Members at Groundbreaking Ceremony

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In front of a capacity crowd of more than 600 business, civic, community, and political leaders, MMPI President Chris Kennedy introduced the charter members for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) at the ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony on the historic...

Cleveland: Medical Mart construction launches building boom

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WKYC-TV 3: Mona Mickelson, Cliff Bailey and Maurice Coleman are among the first people to get an economic lift from the Medical Mart and Convention Center project. The three are members of Laborer's Local 310 and are part of the first wave of construction workers on the site who will be getting paychecks.

Cleveland's medical mart construction starts downtown

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The ceremonial groundbreaking for Cuyahoga County's $465 million medical mart and convention center is nearly two weeks away, but construction crews descended on the downtown malls this morning. Barriers are up along Lakeside Avenue. Precision Environmental is preparing to start asbestos removal, and Independence Excavating Inc. is ready to start demolition, said Barb Shergalis, the county's in-house project manager. Trees will also be shredded, since they are too large to move.

Cleveland Convention Center passes into hands of Cuyahoga County

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM CRAIN’S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: The Cleveland Convention Center today officially passed into the hands of Cuyahoga County, clearing the way for a groundbreaking next month for a new convention center and medical merchandise mart after five years of conversation, planning and negotiation.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center announces groundbreaking date

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Cuyahoga County and MMPI announced earlier today that the ceremonial groundbreaking for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (Cleveland MMCC) will be held Friday, January 14, 2011 at 11 a.m. on the historic Cleveland Malls. The groundbreaking event will feature...

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center response to Bloomberg article

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center issued the following statement in response to an article from Bloomberg News:Cleveland, Ohio (December 6, 2010) -- While we appreciate the interest Bloomberg News has shown in the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center...

Small Business Outreach Events for Cleveland MMCC Scheduled

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Turner Construction Company and MMPI in partnership with Minority Business Solutions and the Cuyahoga County Office of Procurement and Diversity is hosting four (4) small business outreach events on the following dates:These events will give small business owners the opportunity...

International Medical Meeting Professional Association (IMMPA) to hold annual conference in Chicago and introduce IMMPA Certification Program

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The International Medical Meeting Professional Association [IMMPA] announced today that it will bring its Conference to Chicago, June 7-8, 2011 at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers. The theme of the conference, “Engage, Enlighten, and Educate,” is geared to the...

Getting the med mart moving: Editorial

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: After years of talking, planning and negotiating about a medical mart and convention center in downtown Cleveland, work on the complex may begin within weeks. Last Thursday, the outgoing county commissioners -- their jobs abolished by the charter that goes into effect Jan. 1 -- approved the final steps necessary to put the project on track to open in 2013.

Casino, medical mart spark a hotel boom in Cleveland

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: An out-of-state investor group plans to open a hotel on Euclid Avenue, in a $55 million project that could eliminate a dead zone in downtown Cleveland. JHB Hotel LLC, an entity tied to investors in New York, California and Colorado, expects to buy the John Hartness Brown Building at 1001-1021 Euclid Ave. and the neighboring building at 1101 Euclid Ave. before the end of the year. The vacant properties could be plucked from the early stages of foreclosure, thanks to a surge of interest in hotels to complement Cleveland's planned medical mart, new convention center and casino.

Now it's a real deal: Cuyahoga County and MMPI sign closing documents on Cleveland medical mart and convention center

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Break out the construction fences. Get ready for earth movers and cranes. And say goodbye to the downtown Cleveland Mall as we know it. On Thursday, the medical mart and new convention center proposed for downtown Cleveland switched from imagination to reality. It's a big deal for Cleveland. After a decade of relative stagnation, downtown seems to be moving again.

Cuyahoga County, MMPI finalize contract for Medical Mart & Convention Center

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Cuyahoga County on Thursday closed a series of deals for the $465 million medical mart and convention center, clearing the way for construction of a project that backers predict will help revitalize the local economy. Nearly five years after the tax-financed project was proposed, county commissioners approved key land purchases and a business agreement with the county's private partner, Chicago-based MMPI. The mart will showcase medical products and technology in a four-story building attached to an underground convention center near the lakefront.

City, county to sign Cleveland medical mart contracts Thursday

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM MED CITY NEWS: City and county officials are expected to sign several key documents related to Cleveland’s medical mart project Thursday — another milestone and a sign of progress as the $465 million project marches on.

Cleveland Connection Show with Jim McIntyre

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM WDOK-FM 102.1, WNCX-FM 98.5, Q104, Radio 92.3: Groundbreaking should be imminent for the $465 million dollar project. Executive Director Dennis Madden and Public Relations Director Dave Johnson explain the project, and what it should mean for Northeast Ohio.

Rubber Division, ACS Announces New Partnership to Expand 2011 Rubber Expo to include Advanced Materials in Health Care

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is developing an extensive technical symposia for the 180th Technical Meeting at the 2011 Rubber Expo and Advanced Materials in Health Care show to be held on October 11-13, 2011, at...

Cleveland native Tyrone Williams named project manager for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Tyrone Williams was named project manager for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, it was announced earlier today by MMPI. A Cleveland native, Williams began his job duties on November 1 and will be responsible for managing construction schedules and...

LMN Architects unveil detailed concept for Cleveland Medical Mart

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: It's too soon to declare the rapidly evolving designs for the new Cleveland medical mart a success. But the latest renderings of the project, unveiled Thursday by MMPI of Chicago, are intriguing, even encouraging. Among other things, they showed for the first time that the medical mart could have facades of glass and pre-cast concrete panels arranged in lyrical geometric patterns that uncannily -- and unintentionally -- evoke similar ideas in the Op Art paintings of the internationally renowned Cleveland artist Julian Stanczak.

Cleveland planners approve concept for futuristic 'pixelated' windows on medical mart

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: Architects presented drawings Thursday of the proposed medical mart with a large window on one side and a "pixelated" pattern of windows on the other three. Cleveland planners gave tentative approval Thursday for a medical mart building that would add a dramatically modern flair to a mostly conservative downtown.

Winter on the Mall? Designers of the medical mart and convention center are coming up with plans

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM PLAIN DEALER: Cleveland, as everyone knows, is a place with spectacular winter weather, especially down by the lakefront. LMN Architects and the landscape architecture firm of Gustafston Guthrie Nichol, both of Seattle, know this, and they're taking it into account in plans for the new medical mart and convention center in downtown Cleveland. "Certainly, we are deeply considering the four seasons in the design process, as we must do in all projects and climates," Shannon Nichol, of GGN, wrote in an email.

Cleveland City Planning Commission approves revised plans for convention center

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FROM THE PLAIN DEALER: The Cleveland City Planning Commission is satisfied that the revised and more costly plans for a new downtown convention center will give the city a facility competitive with centers in cities including Cincinnati, Columbus and Indianapolis. Today, the commission voted 6-0 to approve the new plans, developed over the past month by MMPI Inc. of Chicago, which will build and operate the facility, along with a new medical mart, under an agreement with Cuyahoga County.

Meet our Design & Construction Partners

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center moves through the design phase and towards a groundbreaking ceremony and commencement of construction, learn about the firms involved with the design and construction of the facility.The Cleveland office of Turner Construction Company...

Northeast Ohio: The Nation's Medical Capital

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On September 16, Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center served as one of the sponsors of a forum titled “Northeast Ohio: The Nation’s Medical Capital?” featuring “Northeast Ohio-The Medical Capital?”The program was featured medical industry and educational leaders, including Chris...

MMPI hosts “Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City” movie premier at Cleveland State’s Levin College of Urban Affairs

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On September 21, Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center teamed up with ParkWorks and the City of Cleveland to host a special showing of the PBS documentary movie “Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City.”MMPI and Cleveland...

We're making incredible progress!

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Land Acquisition FinalizedThe county announced May 20 that the land agreements had been finalized for construction of the Medical Mart on the corner of St. Clair and Ontario Streets. The county obtained an option to purchase the Sportsman’s Restaurant property...

Medical Capital project aims to stretch Northeast Ohio's reputation as health-care powerhouse

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: It's called the Medical Capital, an effort by health-care communication professionals to shape the national perception of the region as a powerhouse in the health-care industry. Ultimately, the goal is to bring money, entrepreneurs and established organizations to Northeast Ohio.

MMPI sees interest grow in Cleveland medical mart and convention center project

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: It appears interest is growing in the planned medical merchandise mart and convention center in Cleveland.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Receives 32nd Signed Letter of Intent for Permanent Showrooms

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

FORBES: "The rapidly-growing number of signed letters of intent showcases a belief in this center for medical education and innovation, integrating world-class trade show and conference facilities with permanent showrooms in a single structure designed specifically for the medical industry,"

Cleveland MMCC Receives 32nd Letter of Intent for Permanent Showrooms

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center announced earlier today that it has received its 32nd signed letter of intent (LOI) for permanent showroom tenants in the Medical Mart, along with 16 LOIs for conferences, conventions, and trade shows. Both numbers...

Cleveland MMCC to sponsor upcoming showing of "Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City"

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center is proud to support a showing of the recently released documentary about Daniel Burnham. Join us at this exciting event as we learn about his vision for Cleveland's downtown Mall.

Cleveland Planning Commission grants convention center preliminary approval

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: The Cleveland Planning Commission today conditionally approved the design for a downtown convention center, giving the go-ahead to slope the mall between Public Auditorium and a to-be-designed medical mart.

Turner Construction to Hold SBE Contracting Community Informational Forum

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Turner Construction will hold an open forum for companies in Cleveland who want to be sub-contractors on the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center project.Representatives from Turner Construction, Cuyahoga County and MMPI will be present the project scope, bid packaging plan...

Cleveland Planning Commission applauds Mall design, but postpones approval

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: The vision could have been a tough sell for members of the Cleveland Design Review Committee, Landmarks Commission and City Planning Commission. After all, the revamped Mall is a modern departure from the century-old Burnham plan, which created the formal park as a respite from the bustle of city life.

Medical mart developers unveil architectural, landscaping plans

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: Cleveland's official arbiters of planning and design today expressed their approval of the architectural and landscaping plans for the new convention center, medical merchandise mart and surrounding public spaces.

Medical mart developers unveil architectural, landscaping plans

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

LMN Architects will propose sloping the downtown Cleveland Mall to create a dramatic new convention center entry

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: The architects of the new Cleveland convention center have something radical in mind for the downtown Mall -- a grassy slope topping a glassy new convention center entrance on the south side of Lakeside Avenue.

Downtown mall would become hill under schematic design for medical mart project

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: Imagine the staid downtown Mall transformed into a grassy slope climbing toward Lake Erie, flanked by the neoclassical Public Auditorium and a modern glass medical mart.

Tri-C opens downtown Hospitality Management Center to prepare students for jobs at Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

With a Fall 2010 groundbreaking quickly approaching for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, Cuyahoga Community College (known locally as Tri-C) is opening its Hospitality Management Center on Public Square in October. The Tri-C Hospitality Management Center will offer training...

The Survey says...Cleveland is tops for healthcare!

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Based on the 2010 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” list and a Thompson Reuters report on health systems’ quality and efficiency, Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center truly is located in the nation’s medical capital.Two recent reports, the...

Cleveland's potential for championships does not lie solely in the sports arena

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER, LETTERS: My out-of-state, sports-minded family visited us in Cleveland just in time to share our misery over "The Decision."

U.S. News ranks Cleveland Clinic No. 1 for heart care for 16th straight year

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: U.S. News & World Report has named the Cleveland Clinic tops in the nation in heart care for the 16th consecutive year.

New civic planners in Cleveland need a big vision: editorial

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER EDITORIAL BOARD: The great urban designer Daniel Burnham famously said, "Make no little plans. They have no magic to stir men's blood." More than a century ago, Burnham made big plans for Chicago, San Francisco, Washington -- and Cleveland.

Selling Cleveland's medical mart: Q&A with MMPI's sales chief

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

MEDCITY NEWS: It's Greg Sanker's job to sell Cleveland's medical mart to the world. Or at least that part of the world that needs to buy into the concept for it to be a success - medical device makers, health information technology vendors, and less-sexy members of the healthcare ecosystem like hospital bed manufacturers.

A new Group Plan Commission for Cleveland has a chance to revise Daniel Burnham's historic vision for downtown

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: Chicago architect Daniel Burnham left a colossal imprint on Cleveland more than a century ago with his 1903 Group Plan for downtown.

Downtown Cleveland Alliance: City has great days ahead

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

WKYC-TV 3: The Downtown Cleveland Alliance says those who would offer pity to Cleveland for LeBron James' decision to leave, have no idea what the city has to offer.

The Medical Capital of the World: By the Numbers

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

$13.7 million - Third Frontier grants awarded to the Cleveland Plus area, more than any other region in Ohio $38.4 million - Medical-imaging maker Philips Healthcare will open a $38.4 million global research and development center next year at University Hospitals Case Medical Center, a boost to the region's growing cluster of medical-imaging businesses.

The Newspaper Headlines Tell the Story

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In mid-June, MMPI hosted more than 75 members of the media, potential permanent showroom tenants, and conference and trade show organizers at The Merchandise Mart in Chicago during the 42nd annual NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, the largest conference in the world for interior design and facilities management.

Cities focus on medical meetings

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CONNECT MEETINGS MAGAZINE: Medical and health care industries are key target markets for many cities when it comes to hosting large meetings and events. Some destinations are even concentrating sales and marketing resources solely on this group segment. As a result, a mutually beneficial relationship has formed between planners and these cities.

Medical Meetings Brace for Health-Care Reform; How the landmark legislation will affect med/pharma meetings and more

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS: In late March, President Obama signed into law a health-care reform bill that promises broad changes to the country's health-care system.

Mayor Frank Jackson names power brokers to city spaces panel

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: Bankers, property owners and leaders of major-league sports teams will serve on the new Group Plan Commission appointed by Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson to come up with a new vision for public spaces downtown. So will an architect who leads downtown walking tours.

MMPI turns up marketing for Cleveland mart; Chicago developer pitches product dealer on project, while letters of intent pile up

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: The intensity of the marketing for the new $425 million convention center and medical merchandise mart was kicked up a notch last week.

Is our medical mart losing the PR battle?

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

NASHVILLE POST BUSINESS: Local commercial property broker Chad Grout thinks so and says the folks at Market Center Management Co. need to step up their activity — or at least the appearance thereof.

Cleveland plans intermodal transportation center to link key landmarks

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: Cleveland plans to build a long-awaited intermodal transportation center near the lakefront to link the new medical mart, convention center and Flats east bank redevelopment.

Prusak named VP of International Medical Meeting Professionals

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

EXHIBIT CITY NEWS: Tony Prusak, director of convention sales for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center (MMCC), was selected as vice president for communications and technology of the International Medical Meeting Professionals Association (IMMPA) at its annual meeting on May 17-19, in St. Louis, MS.

Attendees mum, but generally positive

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: Few executives from several of the firms with product lines targeting the health care market would speak specifically last week at the furniture trade show NeoCon about discussions they have had with MMPI about coming to the Cleveland mart. But, generally, they spoke positively about project.

MMPI turns up marketing for Cleveland mart: Chicago developer pitches product dealers on project, while letters of intent pile up

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: The intensity of the marketing for the new $425 million convention center and medical merchandise mart was kicked up a notch last week.

More than 40 Prospects Gather at The Merchandise Mart in Chicago

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This week, MMPI hosted more than 75 members of the media, potential permanent showroom tenants, and conference and trade show organizers at The Merchandise Mart in Chicago during the 42nd annual NeoCon World's Trade Fair, the largest conference in the...

Developers of Cleveland's Medical Mart explain why they think the concept will work

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: On Tuesday company officials offered their most detailed explanation to date as to why they think the nation needs a medical mart.

Audio: Medical Mart hopes to attract dozens of trade shows

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE BIG ONE: WTAM-AM 1100: Now that the final land deals have been reached, more information about the planned Cleveland Medical Mart is being discussed. Listen to the interview as Bill Wills goes in-depth with Mark Falanga of MMPI.

Architects envision Cleveland's Medical Mart as four stories wrapped in glass

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: New designs for Cleveland's proposed medical mart call for four stories wrapped in glass and centered around an atrium reminiscent of downtown's traditional arcades.

Medical Mart draws more commitments

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN’S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: MMPI said it has signed letters of intent for 12 conventions and 24 medical mart showroom spaces for the new complex.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson forms new panel to study revitalizing malls, Public Square

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson is forming a commission to continue work begun more than 100 years ago by architect Daniel Burnham to remake and revitalize downtown.

Cleveland convention center and medical merchandise mart win tax exemptions

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS: The planned convention center and medical merchandise mart in Cleveland quietly won property and sales tax exemptions in a bill passed by the General Assembly early this morning.

The Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center will house permanent showroom space

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AMERICAN MEDICAL NEWS: The Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center, set to open in 2013, will house permanent showroom space, mainly for those dealing with large-scale medical equipment that is expensive to move from one trade show to another.

New Medical Mart and Convention Center Set for Cleveland

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

MEDICAL MEETINGS MAGAZINE: This fall, construction will begin on a $425 million project to update the 85-year-old Cleveland Convention Center and build a new medical mart next door.

Cleveland MMCC's Tony Prusak Named VP for Communications and Technology for IMMPA

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

EXHIBITOR NEWS NETWORK: Tony Prusak, Director of Convention Sales for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, was selected as Vice President for Communications and Technology of the International Medical Meeting Professionals Association (IMMPA) at its annual meeting May 17-19 in St. Louis, MO.

Cleveland has to make the most of medical mart momentum: editorial

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER EDITORIAL BOARD: The property deals that last week set the final pieces of the medical mart jigsaw puzzle in place not only put Cleveland ahead of the competition in Nashville, Tenn., and New York. They also raise the tantalizing prospect of two groundbreakings that could transform downtown: the med mart and connected convention center and a "phase one" casino in the Higbee Building.

Cleveland MMCC's Prusak named VP of International Medical Meeting Professionals

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Tony Prusak, Director of Convention Sales for Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, was selected as Vice President for Communications and Technology of the International Medical Meeting Professionals Association (IMMPA) at its annual meeting May 17-19 in St. Louis, Missouri....

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Update

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

TODAY'S MEDICAL DEVELOPMENTS: Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center and Cuyahoga County have selected the Cleveland office of Turner Construction Company and Cleveland-based URS as the design-build team for the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center.

Exciting Times in Cleveland

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

HEALTHCARE DESIGN MAGAZINE: As reported earlier, the final barriers to the long-awaited Cleveland Medical Mart and adjoining Convention Center have finally been lifted, and the project is now proceeding full speed ahead, with Turner Construction and URS on board as key players.

Cleveland Planning Commission approves deal to sell convention center

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

THE PLAIN DEALER: The Cleveland Planning Commission on Friday signed off on selling the city's downtown convention center for Cuyahoga County's new medical mart complex.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center and Cuyahoga County Select Turner Construction Company and URS as Design-Build Team

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

ENHANCED ONLINE NEWS: Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center and Cuyahoga County have selected the Cleveland office of Turner Construction Company and Cleveland-based URS as the design-build team for the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center, as presented at the Cuyahoga County Commissioners regular meeting on Thursday.

Turner, URS Selected as Design-Build Team for Cleveland Medical Mart

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY EXECUTIVE: The Cleveland offices of Turner Construction Co. and URS have been tapped as the design-build team for the Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center. Turner will serve as the design-build contractor on the project, while URS will handle the role of architect of record. LNM Architects is the design architect.

Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center Update; Turner Construction Company and URS Selected as the Design-Build Team

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Turner Construction, URS to handle Cleveland convention center/medical mart