The Las Vegas Convention Center is poised to begin its massive $890-million makeover that, when completed in 2012, will virtually double its size to 3.8 million sf-1.9 million sf of which will be devoted to exhibits. The expansion will vault Las Vegas over Chicago and Orlando for bragging rights to having the largest convention center in the country.
The project is being directed by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, which operates the LVCC and the Cashman Center exhibition facility. Enhancements to the LVCC will include:
* A grand lobby that will connect all three halls of the convention center behind a new street facade
* A new meeting room concourse in the South Hall that will join the existing 144 meeting rooms
* Upgraded signage
* Enhanced video and communication tech in all meeting rooms
* More restrooms and aesthetic enhancements
According to LVCVA's VP of facilities, Mark Haley, the changes derive from focus groups with some of the facility's biggest customers.
"A lot of the conversation involved getting in and out of the LVCC more effectively," said Haley.
Another major focus is improving the front-of-the-house experience; a grand concourse will connect all of the venues in the convention center, from the North Hall to the South Hall. And, new logistics along the front of the LVCC will reorganize entry and exit operations; instead of having to go to the far end of the North or South halls to catch a cab, there will be a single point in the middle for taxis.
In addition to the new areas, the older areas of the LVCC will get "significant renovation," said the LVCVA, including new video projection systems and lighting, and better acoustics in meeting rooms. There will be a wireless network throughout the building, and Philadelphia-based food service operator Aramark will expand operations with a full-service club restaurant, an upscale multi-station venue akin to hotel buffets, and "grab-and-go" box lunch vendors on the exhibit floor.
Originally published May 19, 2008