US Airways Center

From its planning inception in 1988 and eventual opening in June of 1992, US Airways Center (formerly America West Arena, as of January 6, 2006) was the benchmark for other cities and other sports facilities. Its design boasted innovations that had not been seen in arenas of its day including multi-story suite levels, attached premium parking facilities, and integrated team practice facility. Both public and private critics saw US Airways Center as a catalytic project capable of stimulating urban growth. In its first full year of operation, the arena received every award a new venue of its kind was afforded, including Best New Concert Venue by Performance Magazine and Best NBA Facility by acclaim of those who know best, the players themselves.