Milwaukee Bucks basketball team has appointed a group of architects including sports specialist Populous, and Wisconsin-based HNTB and Eppstein Uhen, to begin developing designs for a new sports and entertainment complex in downtown Milwaukee.

“Wisconsin deserves a world-class sports and entertainment destination that embraces Milwaukee’s architecture and incorporates innovative elements from across the globe,” said Bucks co-owner Wes Edens.

“We are confident that this team has the expertise to create the ultimate fan-centric arena and a year-round public space, both of which will be integral to downtown Milwaukee’s transformation. By hiring a design team to help create a vision for this development, we continue to work toward ensuring that the Bucks permanently remain a vital Wisconsin asset.”

Populous has previously designed 15 NBA or NHL arenas in North America and the firm is currently working on additional projects in Quebec City and Las Vegas. HNTB and Eppstein Uhen, have both worked on thousands of projects within Wisconsin.

For the proposed development to go ahead, it would need both state and local government support, something it has yet to receive.

“We’re excited to be leading this design team and create more momentum around this incredible project,” said Brad Clark, senior designer at Populous. “We intend to leverage our global experience and expertise in arena design to create a destination that is not just for game day, but for every day. We plan to create a design that will drive year-round economic growth for the entire community and state.”

“Wisconsin residents and Bucks ownership have an ambitious goal for the development of a multi-faceted entertainment destination in Milwaukee,” said Tim Cahill of HNTB. “We’re looking forward to developing designs that show what an extraordinary asset a sports and entertainment center will be for the local community and entire state of Wisconsin.”

“The Bucks owners have a bold vision for the future of our city and we’re thrilled to be a part of the design team,” said Greg Uhen of Eppstein Uhen. “They’re passionate about weaving the new development into the rich architectural landscape of Milwaukee and we’re proud to continue playing a big part in shaping the future of our great city and state.”