Spokane Convention Center Unveils $55 Million Expansion
April 10, 2015
The Spokane (Wash.) Convention Center finished its $55-million expansion in late February, adding 91,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space.
Now, the facility overlooking the Spokane River features 120,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall, as well as additional ballroom and up to 32 meeting rooms. Most of the new space features either second-level or ground-level views of the river thanks to a completely glass north side.
"The physical difference in the Convention Center is, itself, exciting," said Keith Backsen, Visit Spokane vice president of sales and services. "What we're really happy about is being able to share this important new chapter in Spokane's story with meeting planners and groups who we may not have been able to reach before."
The expansion takes full advantage of the riverfront location, offering meeting space with floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of natural light. The riverbank was also transformed with landscaping featuring native plants and nature-friendly habitats that are getting a nod from the local environmental groups.
“The facility is beautiful and it takes great advantage of the proximity to our beautiful river," Backsen said. "We are confident that planners will be very impressed with what we now have to offer."
The expansion maintains the convention center’s Silver LEED certification.
Currently, the convention center is adjacent to 384-room Double Tree Spokane City Center hotel, but by June it also will be connected by a skywalk to a brand new 716-room Marriott.
Local authorities hope that the expansion will allow the facility to compete for larger meetings and conventions particularly in the categories of science, education, engineering, hobby and religion.
First feedback from client has been very positive. Spokane Ag Expo, which recently wrapped up its annual event at the convention center, was pleased to be able to bring it under one roof.
“The Ag Expo filled every inch of space in the expanded convention center,” Backsen said. “They were even able to expand their show to maximum capacity. They were very, very pleased and, of course, so are we!"
Other favorable comments highlight the fact that the north side of the convention center is all glass and looks out over the Spokane River. The natural light, the huge number of breakout rooms, the adjacency to the Spokane River, these all are some of the very positive comments we've heard, Backsen said.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
Add new comment