The details
A “topping out” ceremony is a tradition in the construction industry that occurs when the final structural beam is raised into place, completing the building’s frame, per the release.
Members of EMCID’s board of directors joined officials from construction company SpawGlass—the contractor in charge of the project—subcontractors, engineers and architects in signing their names on a beam that was placed in the building.
“The significance of the 'Topping Out' ceremony is that structurally, we’re complete, and now we move on to other things, like completing the roof, finishing the walls, and installing the windows,” EMCID President and CEO Frank McCrady said in an emailed statement. “Crews will continue to build out interior rooms, put up drywall, install flooring, fixtures and paint.”
McCrady noted the project remains on track to open in late 2026.
Some context
In November 2024, 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, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.
Construction on the convention center began in March. The project will be located in Valley Ranch's Entertainment District and will feature:
- A 55,000-square-foot ballroom/exhibit hall
- Nearly 20,000 square feet of meeting space
- 35,000-40,000 square feet of pre-function and lobby areas with outdoor courtyards
The impact
EMCID officials estimate the convention center will generate nearly $1.73 billion in new spending over 30 years, $35.1 million in sales, hotel and venue taxes, and 500 direct and indirect full-time equivalent jobs.
