Austin Unveils Ambitious $1.6 Billion Convention Center Plan

On February 25, 2025, the Austin Convention Center Department (ACCD) revealed plans for a transformative $1.6 billion project, "Unconventional ATX," aiming to redefine the city's event landscape. This initiative will nearly double the convention center's rentable space from 365,000 to 620,000 square feet, enhancing Austin's capacity to host larger and simultaneous events.

Designed collaboratively by LMN and Page Architects, the new facility will feature 550,000 square feet of indoor space and 70,000 square feet of outdoor areas, including open-air terraces and public plazas. The architecture emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor connections, a modern façade with sweeping roof structures, and transparent designs to maximize natural light. Notably, the center aims to become the world's first zero-carbon-certified convention facility, underscoring Austin's commitment to sustainable urban development.

Beyond its primary function as an event venue, Unconventional ATX aspires to serve as a cultural hub, reflecting Austin's vibrant arts scene. With a historic $17.7 million investment in public art, the center will showcase dynamic installations, interactive exhibits, and artist-driven spaces celebrating the city's diverse creative community.

The project also focuses on enhancing connectivity with surrounding areas, such as the Waterloo Greenway and Palm District. Plans include reopening Third Street for multimodal traffic and transforming Second Street into a pedestrian-friendly corridor, aligning with Austin's mobility goals and improving public access.

Demolition and construction are scheduled to commence following the venue's closure in April 2025, with completion anticipated in late 2028. The center is expected to reopen in early 2029, just in time for the spring festival season, positioning Austin as a premier global destination for conventions and tourism.

Author: Lisa Plummer Savas​

Original Source:corporateeventnews.com