Clippers unveil plans for new arena

The L.A. Clippers’ new arena will emphasize not just basketball but the local climate.

The team released renderings of the construction project, and gave the public some details about what to expect from the new facility.

It is being described as having a “three-dimensional oval design with a unique exterior of diamond-shaped metal panels inspired by the concept of a basketball swishing through a net.”

Additionally, it will feature what are being called “indoor/outdoor sky gardens” showcasing the temperate climate of southern California. Plans call for these food and beverage areas to be accessible from every level.

A multi-purpose plaza complete with concert stage, community basketball courts and space for the community with a supersized LED screen are also part of the design.

On the environmental front, the building will be constructed to LEED Gold standards and the entire campus will be campus is expected to generate net zero greenhouse gas emissions through a combination of carbon offset credits and sustainable design features.

The firm of Wilson Meany LP is the developer and the project is expected to create an estimated 10,000 construction jobs and more than 1,500 permanent jobs, with local hire components in place to fill 30 percent of available construction jobs with local labor and 35 percent of the available arena operation jobs with local residents.

“We challenged the architects and designers on this project to create a landmark facility that exceeds current environmental standards and they have surpassed expectations,” said Chris Meany of Wilson Meany. “The new Clippers arena demonstrates that environmental protection and economic development need not be mutually exclusive.”

Clippers chair Steve Ballmer wants the design and the construction to set a standard for the NBA.

“What that means to me is an unparalleled environment for players, for fans, for sponsors and for the community of Inglewood. Our goal is to build a facility that re-sets fans’ expectations while having a transformative impact on the city we will call home.”

Officially referred to as the Inglewood Basketball & Entertainment Center, the facility is expected to be completed by the fall of 2024.