Transformation & Redesign

The $240 Million transformation of the Convention Center is well underway and remains on schedule for an opening date of January 2026.  The project includes a new exterior which will provide greater natural light throughout the building, wider concourses for improved traffic flow, the addition of new outdoor event spaces (a rooftop terrace and 2 acre park at the entrance of the building), upgraded meeting rooms with new technology, replacement of the building systems, and the introduction of a redesigned Queen City Ballroom.  

Current/Completed Work

Convention Center 

1.    Crews are continuing to frame new walls throughout the building interior. 
2.    On the second floor, the construction team has started installing new drywall. 
3.    Crews have set structural steel to infill an old escalator opening. Preparation work is complete for the new concrete that will soon be poured in the space.
4.    Work to rough in new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing lines is ongoing throughout the building. 

Elm Street Plaza

1.    Crews are continuing to trench and backfill the Elm Street Plaza project site. 
2.    A new storm retention tank is being installed in the south end of the site. 

Whex Garage

1.    Construction drawings for the Whex Garage renovation are in progress. 
2.    Construction work is anticipated to begin in Q2.