Anaheim Convention Center Approved for Seventh Expansion; Populous, Turner Construction Design-Build Team

ANAHEIM, Calif. – The Anaheim Convention Center, LEED certified and the largest convention center on the west coast, was approved for its seventh expansion project at last week’s City Council meeting, which further solidifies the venue as one of the premiere convention centers in the country.

The expansion will include 200,000 square feet of flexible multi-purpose space at the north end of the Convention Center campus (off Katella Ave.), a climate controlled connection to the existing facility and the replacement of 1,400 car park stalls. Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2016.

This expansion will allow the City to remain a leader in the ever expanding field of convention venues and destinations, without increasing debt service to the City or the General Fund. Without this expansion project, the Anaheim Convention Center risks losing business, and losing revenue to support city services.  The Anaheim Resort generates nearly 50% of General Fund taxes, which are returned back to the City for community use, such as public safety, parks and libraries.  The Anaheim Convention Center is one of the pillars of The Anaheim Resort, which directly and indirectly supports the livability of residents citywide.

Built in 1967, the Anaheim Convention Center propelled the City into the convention and meeting industry, and was a key factor in putting Anaheim on the map as a year-round destination.  The Anaheim Convention Center soon thereafter expanded, due to demand for Anaheim amenities, great southern California weather, and accompanying sports and entertainment venues. The convention business continues to be a successful economic engine and a key element in supporting the City’s General Fund and core city services.

Funding this expansion project is made possible in large part due to the creation of the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District (ATID). The ATID, approved in 2010, is a self-assessment district of the hotels in The Anaheim Resort and Platinum Triangle.

In related action, the City Council approved Turner Construction and Populous Architects as the design-build firm to construct this large-scale project.

For more information on the Anaheim Convention Center expansion, please visit www.anaheim.net/ACCexpansion to view images, City Council presentations, and more.

For more information on the City of Anaheim, please visit www.anaheim.net.