Phoenix Convention Center Hits Its Stride
June 30, 2015
Nearly six years have passed since the $600 million expansion project was completed on the Phoenix Convention Center, providing attendees with nearly 900,000 square feet of event space.
Just steps away from downtown Phoenix, the convention center sits on a 26-acre campus and is linked to downtown and several hotels via the new light rail system.
The expansion provided several elements that positioned the convention center for the future. There is more than 300,000 sq. ft. of continuous exhibition hall space that connects the North and West Buildings, including 190,000 sq. ft. of virtually column-free exhibition space in North Building.
In addition, there is more than 150,000 sq. ft. of break out space and $3.2 million in art around the convention center.
"Since the Phoenix Convention Center's expansion, we have welcomed more than 1 million delegates to Phoenix," said Phoenix Convention Center Director John Chan. "Our expansion, which nearly tripled the size of our facility, enables us to attract larger high profile conventions and events such as the National Rifle Association (NRA), U.S. Greenbuild International Conference and MLB All Star Fanfest.”
Besides the space, the convention center planned for future growth with state-of-the-art technology. A fiber network runs through all areas of the convention center, including exhibit halls and meeting rooms.
Complimentary wireless access is available in the convention center and public hot spots. Electronic signs can be found throughout the convention center, allowing for easy modifications to signage in response to new event information.
Touch-control screens in each meeting room provide exhibitor control of lighting, audio and background music as well as an automated “help function” that allows guests to contact the operations center if issues arise.
This expansion, completed in 2009, has moved the convention center not only to the top 20 largest convention centers in the U.S., but also has moved the city of Phoenix to new levels for events and venue hosting.
Last year, the Super Bowl was held in Phoenix, and the Super Bowl Media Center was housed in the convention center.
A football field was erected in the convention center as well, to provide a unique experience for football fans of all ages. And with other events scheduled, including the Phoenix ComiCon, the future is bright for the rising Phoenix Convention Center.
“In 2015, we hosted the Super Bowl NFL Experience and look forward to hosting the fan events for the 2016 College Football Playoffs and 2017 NCAA Final Four,” Chan said. “Though bookings and attendance were impacted during the recession, we are now seeing an increase in business back to pre-recession levels for this year and in the near future."
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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