Originally built in 1957, the convention center that spans four city blocks received a facelift that doubled its size in 1989. The aging center’s upcoming renovation is estimated to generate an economic impact of $2.5 billion over 30 years. This $592 million dollar project will boast an additional 60,000 square foot ballroom, a new 5.8 acre park that will replace the existing asphalt parking lot and have nearly 800 onsite parking spaces.
“With full funding in place and plans approved, it is now a certainty that South Florida will finally have a high-tech convention center,” said Miami Beach City Manager Jimmy L. Morales.
The two-year aggressive building schedule will continue to accommodate many shows during construction, including the internationally acclaimed Art Basel Miami Beach.
“Miami Beach continues to attract high quality, internationally renowned shows, which is a testament of the city’s position in the global economy,” added Morales.
The new design will have a strong emphasis on ocean elements, utilizing solar energy, sun-shading design concepts and using 60 percent natural lighting for the interior — leading to a 20 percent energy reduction.
The state-of-the-art Miami Beach Convention Center is slated for completion by December 2017. The park and Convention Center Drive, which will be re-designed with a landscape median to create a more boulevard feel, is set to be completed by mid-2018.
To read more on the Miami Beach Convention Center project check out the Spring 2015 issue of MB Magazine.
