The Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex has unveiled the architectural renderings of the new Raleigh Convention Center expansion.
The addition brings the facility's total square footage to 798,100 square feet. The expansion is being spearheaded by architect joint venture RATIO | TVS and carries a modern design and boasts world-class amenities.
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“The design of this expansion is the result of a highly collaborative process,” said Kerry Painter, Executive Director of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex. “We’re grateful to all the residents of Raleigh who were engaged in the process, who care about this space that serves as a critical community touchpoint to all the visitors we welcome every year. We’re excited to bring this vision to life and make Raleigh proud with this world-class venue.”
The expansion is a key piece of Raleigh's downtown area growth in the coming years, along with a yet-to-be-built 600-room Omni Hotel, an upgraded version of Red Hat Amphitheater and improved Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
Residents around Raleigh told WRAL news that they hope the new convention center will breathe new life to downtown with new music, food and added varitety.
"I would love to see more music, music is always good," said Paul Fogliah.
The project is no small undertaking, as it is expected to cost nearly $400 million and years of construction to downtown.
“This state-of-the-art convention center expansion is a transformative investment in the future of downtown Raleigh,” said Dennis Edwards, President and CEO of Visit Raleigh. “It will bring thousands of new visitors, driving more restaurant reservations, hotel stays, and traffic to local businesses. This facility strengthens Raleigh’s position as a vibrant, nationally competitive destination for meetings, events, and tourism.”