Construction moves forward on EMCID convention center

Kelley Mattlage, EMCID vice president and chief communications officer, said the concrete footings will provide important support for the facility’s foundation.

“This is a column-free building—no obstructions, which will be nice for future events,” Mattlage said.

The impact

McCrady said the project represents a significant investment into the growth of East Montgomery County.

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.

While the sales bond exceeds the expected cost of the project, Mattlage said the $159 million secured for the project includes potential contingency costs.

According to a 2021 economic analysis report, 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

Once completed, McCrady said he hopes the new convention center will help attract new residents and businesses to the area.

“We should be at the top of the list of major employment relocations, and this investment will certainly help move the needle,” McCrady said.

McCrady said construction on the project is expected to take around 18 months to complete, noting officials are aiming to open the convention center in the fall of 2026.