Phase II of the expansion will begin in 2006, creating approximately 570,000 square feet of exhibition and meeting space. When completed in 2008, Phase I and Phase II of the expansion will form one contiguous underground exhibition hall of over 300,000 square feet.
Phase III starts in early 2009 and will entail an interior renovation of the existing South Building. Completion is expected in late 2009. Other plans for the site include a new, city-owned, 1,000-room Sheraton Hotel located one block away. Access to the existing Phoenix Convention Center has also been improved. A new driveway and pedestrian walkway opened in late August along the north edge of the center. There is also a convenient, new drop-off area for taxis and buses along the north edge of the center. A second pedestrian bridge opened in November, providing better pedestrian access to the center.
The facility remains open for business throughout the three-phase expansion. Existing facilities are not removed until replacement space is opened.
The Arizona legislature and Governor Napolitano approved $300 million in funding in June 2003, matching the $300 million approved by Phoenix voters in 2001.
Reach Scott White, VP of Sales & Marketing for the Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau, (602) 452-6212 or swhite@visitphoenix.com.
