CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -
About 4,000 people got a look at the Time Warner Arena for the Democratic National Convention.
Officials wanted the public to get a first look. They say this convention will be more open and accessible than previous Democratic Conventions.
The DNC got the keys to the arena about seven months ago to do the work. Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx say the work was done by local companies and local workers.
The theme of the convention is Americans coming together.
The stage will be different. It's smaller than other conventions. Officials wanted it that way because they wanted the convention to have a more intimate feel to it.
"I think that's great," Neighbor Meigan Alexander said. "I think when the delegates are in there, when the president is in there, it's going to be nice to feel that close to everybody. You want that camaraderie."
The mayor also told the media his speech will not only be about what a great place Charlotte is but also tell the world the Queen City has spirit and soul, and he says that's the city's special sauce.
