The bidding process for contractors to develop the New National Stadium, the planned main venue of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, begun on September 1, the Stadium operator Japan Sports Council announced. Either a single entity or a joint venture of multiple entities such as design firms and construction contractors can submit a bid. Reduction of cost and time for completion are the main focus of technical examination criteria.

The government sets the limit of the total construction cost at 155 billion yen. Completion is due as early as April 2020. The total floor area of the stadium will be 194,400 m2 with the capacity of 68,000 seats. The number of seats will be added after the Olympics to more than 80,000 in anticipation to host the future World Cup.

Registration of potential bidders will be accepted by September 18 and the proposals are due in November 16. A successful bidder will be selected late December. (2015/09/02)