Proposed Springfield Convention and Events Center Expansion

planned

The project involves a renovation and expansion of the city-owned Springfield Expo Center to create a multipurpose convention and events center. The facility would feature approximately 125,000 square feet of event space including exhibit halls, ballrooms, and meeting rooms, designed for flexibility to accommodate various events. The total facility is expected to encompass about 250,000 square feet including support spaces. The expansion includes a multi-story addition with solar panels and greenspace on the roof, and an outdoor plaza connecting to Jordan Valley Park. The project cost is estimated at $175 million, funded primarily through bonds backed by a proposed 3% hotel tax increase, with additional funding from sales tax revenues and a state budget earmark. A connected 400-room hotel is also recommended but not included in this project cost and would be privately funded.