Anaheim Convention Center Kicks Off 7th Expansion Project

April 27, 2015

The Anaheim Convention Center kicked off their seventh betterment expansion with a ground breaking ceremony last week.

Tom Morton, executive director, Convention, Sports and Entertainment, started the ceremony with a focus on the future, as well as thanks to the many individuals who helped make the expansion possible.

“With this 7th betterment expansion, the ACC will continue to be the largest convention facility on the West Coast,” he said. “This expansion is about the future, in particular, meeting the demands of the future for the shows that continue to grow.”

Anaheim Mayor Pro Tem Lucille Kring remarked on the last ribbon cutting ceremony for an expansion at the ACC. “The last time we took on a project like this was in January of 2000.  And tomorrow, we need to plan the next expansion for the ACC. San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco are already nipping at our heels when it comes to meeting and event space, and they will not slow down.  Neither, then, should we.”

“This expansion will push us to over 1 million square feet of convention space,” said Jay Burress, president and CEO, Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau. “And we already have 14 different shows that have booked into the new space for 2017.  We are also marking this expansion by burying a time capsule that will be opened in 2030.”

The two-level expansion, with 200,000 square feet of flexible space and 100,000 square feet of column-free space, will address the parking issue, adding in 1,350 new parking spaces.

It also will support more than 2,000 new jobs in the community to staff the additional space. It is projected to bring in $9 million in additional tax revenue.

Gary Birdsall, vice president, Turner Construction Company, said, “This expansion will bring new and exciting conventions into the new space. And we are setting the standard for convention centers on the West Coast.”

The projected completion date for the expansion is Spring 2017.  For more information, including a video on the new design, please visit accexpansion.com.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.