New Ground

Forecasting FIFA

AECOM conducted a study for the USA Bid Committee that estimates a conservative domestic economic impact of five billion dollars if the United States is chosen to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2018 or 2022. The analysis also estimates that between 65,000 and 100,000 total new jobs would be created in the various host cities during the preparation and operation of the tournament in the year of the event. Our economists previously conducted the economic and community impact analyses for the 1994 FIFA World Cup™ in the United States and multiple studies for the Olympic Games, beginning with the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles. David Downs, the USA Bid Committee Executive Director, noted, "The economic impact to our country and to our cities will be of vast significance, both at national and international levels."

Certified in Charlotte

AECOM's Charlotte, North Carolina office achieved a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®)-Commercial Interior certification through its recent renovation. "The design strategy was to choose environmentally friendly materials and furnishings to create a collaborative, healthy environment for staff," says Christina Burton, the LEED Coordinator for the office. The team carefully selected materials, such as low-VOC paints, recycled denim insulation and recyclable MBDC "Cradle to Cradle" certified carpet. Preference was given to material manufacturers located within a 500 mile radius and existing furniture was reused to eliminate waste. Now the architects, interior designers, building engineers, and environmental staff in Charlotte have a more comfortable place to work, with collaboration areas, sunlight and views. "The impact has been huge and client response has been great," says Christina.(Photo by Cameron Triggs Photography)

AIA Awards

Each year, the Hong Kong chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recognizes excellence in architecture, interior design, urban design and un-built work completed by AIA members in Hong Kong, China and the Asia Pacific Rim. This year, AECOM was distinguished with the Honor Award for Urban Design for the Jiading Beijiao Wetland Master Plan in Shanghai, China. The project was also the winner of the Sustainable Design Award. In addition, the Longchi Town Detailed Master Plan in Sichuan, China received the Merit Award for Urban Design. "These awards are the culmination of many people's stellar efforts," said Chi Chung Wong, Executive Vice President for Planning, Design + Development in Asia. "This recognition reflects AECOM at its best: a cross-regional, multidisciplinary, collaborative idea factory." The AIA awards were presented in Hong Kong on 6 November 2009.