The details
While construction on the project began in late January, officials said an official groundbreaking ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. March 10 near the Cinemark at Valley Ranch Town Center. The groundbreaking ceremony is coming more than two years after EMCID officials announced the project in April 2022.
In November, EMCID’s board of directors approved a resolution authorizing the issuance of $159 million in sales tax revenue bonds to cover the cost of the convention center, as well as an 813-space attached parking garage.
EMCID officials said the project represents a significant investment into the growth of the area, and is projected to generate roughly $1.73 billion in spending over 30 years.
What to expect
EMCID’s board of directors approved the selection of construction firm SpawGlass Construction Company to oversee the project in May 2023, according to a December news release. Designed by Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock Architects, the venue will feature:
- A 55,000-square-foot ballroom and exhibit hall
- Roughly 20,000 square feet of meeting space
- Around 25,000 square feet of lobby space and outdoor courtyards.
According to a 2021 economic analysis report conducted by Hunden Strategic Partners, the project is expected to generate the following returns within the district over a 30-year period:
- $1.73 billion in spending at area businesses
- $775 million in new earnings by area businesses
- $35.1 million in sales, hotel and venue taxes
- More than 500 direct and indirect full-time equivalent jobs
What’s next
EMCID officials said construction on the project will likely take around 18 months to complete.
