NEW YORK, NY As a part of a five-year expansion program at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, for the USTA National Tennis Center (NTC), the third annual phase in a series of upgrades was completed in time for the 2016 US Open. Faithful+Gould provides owner's representation, project and cost management services to the USTA for the program.

The program, which commenced in 2013, includes a sweeping transformation of the center, with the addition of a retractable roof over Arthur Ashe Stadium, infrastructure upgrades, and construction of new Armstrong and Grandstand stadiums.

"The players' and fans' reactions to the new venues have been incredibly positive and we appreciate of all the support Faithful+Gould gave us in achieving this milestone," said Daniel Zausner, COO USTA National Tennis Center.

The first three annual phases consisted of completing the Arthur Ashe Stadium retractable roof, new Grandstand Stadium and South Campus court replacement. The project was designed by ROSSETTI and built by Hunt Construction Group. The roof was constructed of flexible, translucent PTFE fabric stretched over a steel frame and supported by eight steel columns on deep pile foundations.

The South Campus project is also complete. It includes ten new replacement tournament courts with additional seating, improved patron circulation, and enhanced amenities, including an oyster bar, celebrity-endorsed concession areas, free WiFi connectivity, and charging stations throughout the center.

Located in the southwest corner of the center, the 8,125-seat new Grandstand Stadium has been a big hit with fans. This irregular shaped, 16-sided stadium places additional seating within the more frequently shaded spots.  The Grandstand spectator platform also provides views of multiple South Campus courts.