The second stage of construction opens up the expansive, glass-walled prefunction area and the 83,000-sq.-foot Hall B on the second level, bringing the combined space in Halls A & B to 129,000 sq. feet and the total exhibit space available for use to 209,000 sq. feet. Phase II also marks the completion of 30 meeting rooms and 20 loading docks.
This is very good news for Allegheny County and the region, said Allegheny County Executive Jim Roddey. Marking the completion of the second phase by hosting an important convention proves how valuable the convention center is to Pittsburgh and the region. There is no doubt that the new David L. Lawrence Convention Center will provide a tremendous boost to the local and regional economy, and help showcase Allegheny County to the nation.
Upon final completion in spring 2003, the new Center will comprise 330,000 square feet of exhibit space, 51 meeting rooms, two 250-seat lecture halls and 37 loading docks.
The opening of Phase II is a major milestone in the overall project, said Stephen G. Leeper, Sports & Exhibition Authority (SEA) executive director. We are beginning to see the positive impact the facility brings to the region`s economy.
This was a very challenging schedule with a one-of-a-kind structure, Leeper said. The achievement of the successful opening of Phase II is directly attributable to a tremendous amount of hard work and team effort. Congratulations to the project team and every worker involved in the construction.
I am delighted that we are able to celebrate the completion of the second phase of construction by opening the facility to our first major convention. Our ability to host conventions of this scale is a wonderful testament to the value this incredible facility brings to our City, says Mayor Tom Murphy.
The Greater Pittsburgh Convention & Visitors Bureau (GPCVB) has booked more than $210.56 million in business in the new facility through 2009. These bookings will generate 330,146 room nights, draw 284,165 delegates and create an economic impact of more than $210.68 million.
With 79 conventions booked in the new Center, we are off to a tremendous start, said Joseph R. McGrath, president, GPCVB. Our clients are truly impressed by the beauty and functionality of the facility. No other convention center in the U.S. offers a waterfront location in the heart of the business and cultural district.
An additional 63 conventions are logged as tentatives and are in final negotiation, with Pittsburgh on the short list of finalists.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
