Convention Center Dallas Master Plan to cost City of Dallas nearly $200 million
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas City Council has made a major step towards increasing the city’s appeal as a top convention destination by awarding contracts worth more than $187 million for the development and enhancement of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD). Aimed at turning the facility into a top-notch venue for national and international events, this action fits under the larger KBHCCD Master Plan.
Perkins&Will and Populous, architectural and engineering firms working on the Convention Center Expansion West of Lamar, received lion’s share of the funds, $141.5 million. With over 50% minority- and women-owned business enterprise (M/WBE) participation, this specific element of the project emphasizes the city’s dedication to inclusiveness and diversity. These companies are respected in their domains, and their participation is expected to provide creative ideas and environmentally friendly solutions for the growth initiatives.
The council also approved a significant investment totaling $42 million in city funding enhanced by $31 million in federal grants. Specifically, a collaboration with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) helped to source $20 million of the federal funds from the Reconnecting Communities grant program. These money are set aside for the basic construction of three deck tops and the Lamar crossing close to the KBHCCD, which is essential for tying the convention center into the surrounding urban fabric.
Metropolitan Infrastructure, PLLC, a Dallas-based M/WBE company, won a sizable contract valued more than $3.7 million. Their responsibility is for overseeing Component 5 of the project, which centers on Pioneer Plaza and Cemetery refurbishment. Featuring 99.3% M/WBE, this company exemplifies the city’s commitment to diversity and local community involvement in its development initiatives.
Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert emphasized the transforming power of these funds.
“The City Council has made a transformational investment to realize the vision for a reimagined Convention Center district,” said Tolbert in a press release. “The local and global expertise of our project partners will be instrumental in creating a facility that not only meets current and future convention demands but connects the surrounding residential community and serves downtown workers, benefitting Dallas economic growth and social vibrancy for generations.”
The growth plans have not only great scope but also expected impact. The proposal calls for 800,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, a 170,000 square-foot ballroom with a central area spanning 100,000 square feet, 260,000 square feet of conference rooms, and 2,000 fresh parking places. These improvements are meant to satisfy the changing expectations of convention goers and help Dallas to be a top choice for major conferences and gatherings.
The institution, which is scheduled to open in 2029, already has more than 40 conventions booked. This forward momentum clearly shows the confidence and expectation about the future of the KBHCCD.
Those who want to learn more about the project or simply want to follow on the updates about the development of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas Master Plan could visit the official project website here. For community members and interested parties in the progress of the project and their advantages for the Dallas area, this website serves as a comprehensive resource.
