Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center Starts $3 Billion Redevelopment Project

Construction has commenced on the nearly $3 billion redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. A groundbreaking event on June 26 marked the start of this ambitious project, which will significantly expand and enhance the center's facilities.

Expansive Growth

The redevelopment will add 76,000 square feet to the exhibition halls, double the ballroom space to 170,000 square feet, and nearly triple the meeting room space to 260,000 square feet. This transformation is scheduled for completion in 2028, with the opening planned for 2029.

Meeting Modern Needs

Advocates for the project argue that these upgrades are essential to keep up with the evolving demands of the convention industry. Already, 41 conventions have committed to hosting their events at the upgraded facility.

Partial Operations During Construction

The center will remain partially open throughout the construction period to continue serving existing commitments.

Groundbreaking Event

The groundbreaking ceremony, held at Park at Gilley’s, featured prominent attendees such as Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, Jack Matthews of Matthews Southwest, Rep. Angie Chen Button, Rosa Fleming, the city's director of convention and event services, and former U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, the center's namesake.

Vision for the Future

Jack Matthews highlighted the project's goal of adding 2.5 million square feet of state-of-the-art programmable space, creating a more dynamic and versatile convention center. The redevelopment includes plans for green spaces, walkable areas, and new entertainment options, enhancing connectivity between downtown and southern Dallas.

Extensive Planning and Coordination

The project has been in the planning stages for a significant time. It may incorporate about 130,000 square feet of the former Dallas Morning News headquarters to avoid conflicts with potential high-speed rail development nearby.

Project Components and Management

The overall expansion consists of seven components. Inspire Dallas LLC, connected to Matthews Southwest, will manage the first component focused on expanding the convention center space. McKissack & McKissack, along with Dikita Enterprises Inc., will oversee renovations of the Dallas Memorial Arena and Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

The redevelopment aims to boost Dallas's status as a prime destination for conventions and conferences. The reconstructed facility is expected to nearly double revenue and attendance. The 41 booked conventions could generate $658 million in direct spending and $1 billion in economic impact. An additional 92 conventions are considering booking space, potentially adding $1.8 billion in direct spending and $2.8 billion in economic impact.

Expanding Opportunities

Visit Dallas CEO Craig Davis emphasized that the upgraded center will attract high-end conventions from fields like medicine, law, and finance, previously deterred by inadequate facilities. This strategic enhancement is expected to open new opportunities and markets for Dallas.

Connecting Communities

Reginald Williams, assistant director of convention and event services, highlighted the broader goal of connecting downtown with southern neighborhoods, creating vibrant spaces that engage both visitors and residents.