City of Dallas reports steady progress on major convention center expansion efforts
Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas has announced substantial progress on the first component of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) Master Plan. The update reaffirms the city’s dedication to building a more modern, competitive, and community-connected convention center that will serve as a key driver for economic growth.
City leaders shared updates during a recent City Council briefing, highlighting the achievements already made in planning, design, and early on-site preparation. With a strong emphasis on managing costs, preserving operational continuity, and maximizing long-term value for Dallas residents, the project team is pushing forward on the ambitious effort to transform the city’s core convention space.
Focus on Smart Design and Long-Term Growth
“This is steady, disciplined progress on a project that matters deeply to Dallas,” said City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. “Our teams have been focused on doing the work the right way, including refining the design, managing costs, and preparing the site. We will deliver a convention center that serves our residents, supports downtown, and positions Dallas to compete at the highest level.”
The first component of the master plan centers on demolishing the current convention center and building a significantly larger and more flexible facility in its place. The new structure will feature increased exhibit halls, larger meeting and ballroom spaces, and cutting-edge event technology, all designed to respond to changing demands in the meetings and events industry.
Sustainability is also top of mind. The project will incorporate energy-efficient systems and align with the City’s broader environmental and resilience goals, helping Dallas push forward its vision of a greener, more forward-thinking future.
Experienced Partners and Economic Potential
The city has partnered with Inspire Dallas, led by Dallas-based firm Matthews Southwest, to manage this first phase. With a proven track record of large-scale urban development, Inspire Dallas is overseeing the delivery of the new facility on the city’s behalf.
“We are building a convention center that reflects where Dallas is headed,” said Rosa Fleming, Director of the Convention and Event Services Department. “Component 1 strengthens our ability to attract major conventions and global events while creating a facility that connects better to downtown, supports local businesses, and delivers real economic benefits to our communities.”
In recent months, crews have completed crucial behind-the-scenes work, including finalizing 100 percent of the schematic designs, identifying ways to cut costs without reducing the project’s scope, and beginning enabling work to support the transition from the old center to the new one.
Driving Economic Impact and Community Access
This next-generation convention center is expected to become a major economic engine for Dallas. Its design will offer more flexible spaces, improve user experience, and help bring in more large-scale conventions, global trade shows, and international events.
These gatherings are forecasted to bring in more visitor spending, fill hotel rooms, and support thousands of jobs in construction, tourism, hospitality, and small businesses throughout the region.
A key aspect of the project is better connecting the convention center to downtown and neighborhoods in South and Southern Dallas. With new walkways, public spaces, and transit-friendly design elements, the project aims to serve both locals and out-of-town visitors alike.
Local hiring and workforce development also remain a core focus of the project. City officials are working to ensure Dallas residents and minority-owned businesses have direct access to jobs and contract opportunities tied to the construction and long-term operation of the facility.
As Dallas prepares to take the global stage by hosting major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, this reimagined convention center is set to become a “global front door” for the city.
