The Ultimate Metropolis - CityCenter, Las Vegas

So we've all seen the major construction going on Vegas and maybe you even saw the small scale model of CityCenter at Bellagio. But..what are the facts?

Here we go:
A joint venture between MGM MIRAGE and Dubai World, CityCenter is an unprecedented architectural paradigm for the ideal modern city that has the potential to redefine contemporary urban design throughout the world. The more than $8 billion mixed-use development, built on 76 acres along the Las Vegas Strip between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo resorts, confirms a cultural and lifestyle revival of city living.

It's slated to open November 2009 and there are a few main, distinct areas:

The Crystals, shopping area, will be an inviting neighborhood featuring high-end retail, dining and entertainment venues that together form the core of this urban metropolis.

The Plan
It began with a master plan for a high-density destination with interesting places and experiences, smooth public circulation and regard for its surroundings. To oversee the projects seven architects, three architects of record, 90 interior designers and hundreds of consultants, MGM MIRAGE retained Gensler, the largest architectural firm in the world.

Sustainable Design
They aspire to achieve LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, taking an innovative approach to site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental air quality.

$40 Million Fine Art Program
To create a truly unique urban destination, CityCenter will populate the public spaces with one of the largest and most ambitious corporate art programs in the world.The CityCenter Fine Art Program will encompass a multitude of styles and media -- ranging from sculptures and paintings to large-scale installations -- engaging visitors on both a visual and intellectual level. Some will be existing pieces, carefully chosen for their artistic value and cultural significance; others will be site-specific installations for which the artist has been invited to command their vision over the space. The contemporary masterpieces will transform CityCenter into a living, breathing museum of iconic works of art.

Construction
Really cool shots of the construction going on there, updated via webcam every 30 minutes.

In true Las Vegas style check out the beautiful, interactive website they designed just for this.