Dallas, Texas, December 12, 2025
Dallas has revealed significant progress in the redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, gearing up for the FIFA World Cup in 2026. Key developments include the establishment of a FIFA Media Center, land acquisitions for expansion, and selection of a construction manager. With ongoing improvements expected to enhance the city’s economic landscape, the convention center aims to modernize facilities and attract more events. The project’s completion is targeted for 2029, reinforcing Dallas’s status as a competitive destination for conventions.
Dallas Unveils Year-End Review of Convention Center Redevelopment
A Step Forward for Dallas’s Economy
Dallas, Texas – The city has unveiled its 2025 year-end review of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center’s redevelopment, highlighting significant advancements as it prepares to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Key Developments
- FIFA Media Center: Starting January, Convention Halls A, B, and C will serve as FIFA’s International Broadcast Center until August 2026.
- Land Acquisition: The City Council approved the purchase of large portions of the old Dallas Morning News campus for nearly $52 million, securing land for the “West of Lamar” expansion.
- Design Completion: Project teams reached 100% schematic design, with plans publicly presented in March 2025.
- Construction Management: Trinity Alliance was selected as the Component 1 Construction Manager at Risk, initiating pre-construction coordination with the city and its partners.
- Transportation Agreement: An interlocal agreement with DART was approved to close the existing station beneath the convention center and reroute service, with DART Board finalization on December 9, 2025.
- FAA Approval: The Federal Aviation Administration approved the decommissioning of the existing vertiport.
- Venue Relocation: The Black Academy of Arts and Letters is set to relocate to the Women’s Museum at Fair Park.
- Financial Milestone: In June 2025, the City Council authorized a $1 billion loan to advance enabling work and pre-construction activities.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Visit Dallas has secured 68 conventions beyond 2029, representing over 1.17 million room nights and an estimated $1.75 billion in economic impact. An additional 101 events are holding dates pending final plans, potentially adding 1.9 million room nights and $2.9 billion in impact. To accommodate ongoing construction, the convention center is assisting groups with alternative event locations for 2029. The expanded convention center is scheduled for completion in 2029.
Background
The redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center is part of Dallas’s broader efforts to revitalize downtown and enhance its competitiveness as a premier destination for conventions and events. The project aims to modernize facilities, expand capacity, and improve the overall visitor experience, aligning with the city’s strategic goals for economic growth and urban development.
Conclusion
The ongoing redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center marks a pivotal moment for Dallas’s economy. By investing in infrastructure and future events, the city is not just enhancing its landscape but also creating opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs. As Dallas continues to progress towards a completion date in 2029, residents are encouraged to stay informed and support local enterprises that contribute to the vibrant economic future of Dallas County.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center’s role during the FIFA World Cup?
Starting January, Convention Halls A, B, and C will serve as FIFA’s International Broadcast Center until August 2026.
What recent land acquisition has Dallas made for the convention center expansion?
The City Council approved the purchase of large portions of the old Dallas Morning News campus for nearly $52 million, securing land for the “West of Lamar” expansion.
Who is managing the construction of the convention center’s redevelopment?
Trinity Alliance was selected as the Component 1 Construction Manager at Risk, initiating pre-construction coordination with the city and its partners.
What financial steps has Dallas taken to fund the convention center project?
In June 2025, the City Council authorized a $1 billion loan to advance enabling work and pre-construction activities.
How is Dallas preparing for events during the convention center’s construction?
The convention center is assisting groups with alternative event locations for 2029 to accommodate ongoing construction.
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Key Features of the Convention Center Redevelopment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| FIFA Media Center | Convention Halls A, B, and C will serve as FIFA’s International Broadcast Center from January to August 2026. |
| Land Acquisition | Purchase of portions of the old Dallas Morning News campus for nearly $52 million to support the “West of Lamar” expansion. |
| Design Completion | Achieved 100% schematic design, with plans publicly presented in March 2025. |
| Construction Management | Trinity Alliance selected as the Component 1 Construction Manager at Risk, initiating pre-construction coordination. |
| Transportation Agreement | Interlocal agreement with DART approved to close the existing station beneath the convention center and reroute service. |
| FAA Approval | Decommissioning of the existing vertiport approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. |
| Venue Relocation | The Black Academy of Arts and Letters to relocate to the Women’s Museum at Fair Park. |
| Financial Milestone | City Council authorized a $1 billion loan in June 2025 to advance enabling work and pre-construction activities. |
| Future Conventions | 68 conventions booked beyond 2029, with an additional 101 events pending, representing over 3 million room nights and an estimated $4.65 billion in economic impact. |
| Event Relocation Assistance | Convention center assisting groups with alternative event locations for 2029 to accommodate ongoing construction. |
| Completion Timeline | Expanded convention center scheduled for completion in 2029. |
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