As work continues on the demolition of the iconic Mobile Civic Center, extra care is being taken to preserve massive murals on the arena's walls.
Demolition on the arena has begun, but Mayor Sandy Stimpson said experts with experience in historic preservation will go to great lengths to salvage Conrad Albrizio's mosaics "Mardi Gras" and "Circus."
"ICC Commonwealth has successfully moved historic structures like lighthouses, churches and theatres for 30 years and holds records for the heaviest and tallest structures ever relocated in America," Stimpson said. "This is a fascinating and important part of this project, and we are grateful to have such an experienced team leading it."
The murals will be preserved and installed in the new arena.
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"Moving these murals is no easy feat, as they are each 16 feet long, 45 feet wide and weigh an estimated 80 tons," Stimpson added.
A portion of the Expo Hall will remain intact so the murals can be stored while the new arena is constructed.
Construction on the new arena is expected to get underway in March.
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