I would recommend sending your best tech(s) to the programming courses, right after a long talk to ensure his future with you and has signed a non-compete contract backing up that conversation.
Either way you go, I would recommend finding an independant programmer to work with you on the first job for sure, and maybe for the long term as well. You want your guys to at least be familiar enough with programming to be able to implement minor changes down the road, like changing out command for upgraded equipment, modifying lighting scenes, etc. without waiting for your sub who may be on a 2 month gig in another state.
Be aware that tons of otherwise solid businesses have gone belly up trying to make automation work in mega jobs. Mostly due to out-of-control unbillable programming costs that have spiralled well beyond your initial expectations and can easily surpass the number on you quoted by tens of thousands of dollars and beyond. Both companies products, and the third party components for the common sub-systems, are significantly more predictable than even five years ago, but it's still something to consider.
As far as which line, I agree with Sir Round Sound, but would add that if you already have strong relationships with vendors who offer proven RS-232 control (ADA, Lexicon, Auto Patch, AudioAccess, Lutron HWI, Vantage, etc.) it might make sense to consider AMX strictly for control and maintain vendor relationships that you have built, and stay with what you know.
If you aren't aligned with these many of these types of product lines and see value in using Crestron's A/V processors, multi-zone controllers, lighting control systems, etc. to have a consistent brand story to tell, then that might be the way to go.
It might be a good idea to contact your regional contact for each company and set up CEDIA appointments to see both lines thourougly.
Ultimately, you will get a blank pallette to work with either way and the finished result is definitely more dependent on system design skills and programming talent then the systems themselves.
