$95 million expansion complete at the Fort Worth Convention Center

On Monday, phase one of the Convention Center expansion was completed with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a VIP gathering.

FTW_convention_center_exterior

In 2024, Fort Worth welcomed 11.5 million visitors, and this expansion is a step towards supporting the city’s larger economic development plan.

Photo by the City of Fort Worth

A brand-new chapter for the Fort Worth Convention Center began Monday, with the completion of phase one of its expansion. Totaling 76,794 sqft, phase one — which kicked off in 2023 — now has a nice, neat bow wrapped around it.

What’s new?

  • New 9,720-sqft state-of-the-art kitchen (completed back in May) — check.
  • New southeast entrance with a lightbox atrium and terrace — check.
  • New coffee bar — check.
  • Eleven new loading docks — check.

The convention center remained entirely operational during the last two years of construction. These new additions are now fully complete and open to convention clients and the public.

Bonus — Commerce Street is now straightened and provides space for a future hotel and potential restaurant + retail.

FTW_Beltbuckle_brew

Beltbuckle Brew is now open at the Fort Worth Convention Center.

Photo by the City of Fort Worth

What’s next?

Phase two design is projected to be completed by fall 2026, with construction starting shortly after. An estimated $606 million will go towards the latter half of the project — which includes the demolition of Fort Worth’s “flying saucer” arena.

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