Dallas moves forward with convention center overhaul designed to reshape downtown and spur development
Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas has begun major demolition work at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD), marking a visible turning point in a long-planned redevelopment effort. City officials say the work now underway represents a decisive step toward delivering a modern convention center and a connected district designed to drive economic growth and reshape the southern edge of downtown.
Demolition has begun on Halls D, E, and F, clearing space for construction of the new facility. This stage follows months of pre-enabling work that included utility relocations, structural separation within the building, and detailed site preparation to ensure demolition can proceed safely and efficiently.
Operations Continue While Transformation Begins
Despite the visible changes, the convention center will continue operating. Halls A, B, and C will remain active for events in the coming years, allowing Dallas to maintain convention activity while construction advances in phases. The facility is also scheduled to serve as the FIFA World Cup 2026 International Broadcast Center through August 2026. After that global event concludes, ongoing conventions and exhibitions will continue in the remaining halls while demolition and construction progress around them.
“Today marks a major milestone in a transformation years in the making,” said City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. “Guided by our Mayor, City Council, and the support of Dallas voters, this demolition signals visible, tangible progress. Every step is executed with precision, fiscal responsibility, and a forward-looking vision—ensuring this investment fuels opportunity, growth, and prosperity for Dallas residents and businesses for decades to come. Dallas is building the future, brick by brick,” Tolbert added.
As part of the demolition strategy, the structure spanning Lamar Street will be carefully separated. Once that process is complete, crews will continue dismantling the remaining sections of Halls D, E, and F.
A portion of Hall F that spans the DART and Union Pacific rail lines will remain in place. The floor slab above the rail corridor will be preserved to protect critical infrastructure below, while all structural elements above that level will be removed.
The DART Convention Center Station will remain closed throughout construction, though trains will continue running through the corridor. Dozens of Union Pacific freight trains pass through the site daily, making uninterrupted rail service a critical priority during demolition and rebuilding.
Timeline and Economic Impact
Major demolition activity is expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2026, with the overall redevelopment scheduled for completion in 2029.
When finished, the new convention center will feature approximately 750,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit hall space, 105,000 square feet of ballroom space, and 180,000 square feet of meeting rooms. These improvements are designed to position Dallas as a leading destination for major national and international events.
“This milestone reflects the extensive planning and collaboration behind the scenes to keep events operating while we transform the site,” said Rosa Fleming, Director of Convention and Event Services. “Our team is focused not only on delivering a world-class facility, but also on ensuring that clients, partners, and visitors continue to experience a seamless experience throughout construction.”
The redevelopment is already showing measurable economic momentum. City officials report that 70 major conventions have been booked for 2029 and beyond, representing an estimated $1.9 billion in total economic impact.
Funding for the project remains anchored by dedicated Hotel Occupancy Tax and Project Financing Zone revenues, which have generated more than $224 million so far. A $1 billion bridge loan approved by the Dallas City Council in 2025 allows the city to move forward with enabling work while maintaining the project schedule. Long-term revenue bonds are planned for issuance in 2026.
A New District for Downtown Dallas
Beyond the convention center itself, the redevelopment will anchor a walkable mixed-use district designed to better connect downtown with The Cedars and southern Dallas. The project is expected to unlock more than 30 acres of land for future housing, hotels, retail, dining, and public spaces, expanding economic opportunity and reshaping the area’s urban fabric.
City leaders view the transformation as more than a construction project. They describe it as an investment in Dallas’ future — one intended to strengthen tourism, support local businesses, attract global events, and create a more connected and vibrant downtown for decades to come.
