Dive Brief:

• Milwaukee Bucks officials announced that Johnson Controls will serve as the smart building partner for the team's new $524 million arena, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

• The building controls company aims to boost the venue's energy efficiency and security through building automation, lighting, heating and ventilation, Wi-Fi, fire protection and other features. 

• Through the new partnership, Johnson Controls will work with the arena's general contractor, Mortenson, as well as owner's representative Icon Venue Group and subcontractors on the project.

Dive Insight:

Construction began on the Bucks' new arena in June 2016, and project officials have said the facility is on schedule for completion in time for the 2018–2019 NBA season. The team’s current home at the BMO Bradley Center will be razed once the new venue is complete.

Sports venues across the U.S. are utilizing advancements in lighting, automation and other smart features to improve the fan experience. Expanding Wi-Fi capabilities is one of the biggest trends driving stadium design, as fans look to stay connected during games, and advertisers seek new ways to reach them in their seats.

The Bucks have also incorporated technology to tackle workforce hiring goals. In December, the team announced that it would join forces with SkillSmart, a Maryland–​based online job search company, to recruit the 40% share of local workers it committed to hiring for the stadium project. Construction on the arena is expected to create more than 3,000 jobs, and the surrounding entertainment district project is projected to create "thousands more" positions.