An older part of the Las Vegas Convention Center is finally getting an $600 million renovation to match the $1 billion, 1.4-million-square-foot West Hall, which debuted in 2021.
Delayed by the pandemic, work is underway on the South Hall to enhance its design, architecture and amenities. A sprawling outdoor plaza on the hall's east side and reimagined indoor lobby will create what project officials call "a sense of arrival" and access to new prefunction space and a second-floor boardroom.
Work will continue through 2025, with minimal disruption to scheduled trade shows, officials said.
"We have been the No. 1 trade show destination for nearly three decades, and we are committed to being the No. 1 trade show destination for another three decades," said Steve Hill, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "This renovation will provide our customers with an experience that will make them want to come back year after year."
A rendering of the outdoor plaza planned for the Las Vegas Convention Center's South Hall. Photo Credit: Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
Among the project highlights: The signature West Hall exterior ribbon roof will be continued to create more architectural cohesion; an interior concourse will link the North Hall and the South Hall and provide interior access throughout the campus; and an expansive Grand Lobby between the North and Central halls will offer natural light and views of both halls.
New technology, including digital displays, wayfinding and interactive information kiosks, will be added. Other tech upgrades will improve electrical access for trade show organizers and increase connectivity for guests.
A newly designed parking lot outside of Central Hall (Silver Lot) will feature a Vegas Loop station to transport guests to and from Wynn and Encore.
The convention center's renovation, along with the creation of the West Hall and Allegiant Stadium, was initially approved in 2016 during a special session of the Nevada Legislature. While construction of the West Hall and stadium moved forward, the renovation of the legacy campus was delayed because of the pandemic.
The LVCVA's board approved design and construction plans for the renovation in August. The project will be funded with transfers from the LVCVA's general fund, bonds supported by its general revenues and the 0.5% room tax authorized by the legislature and the proceeds from the sale of the 10-acre Riviera parcel.