The Dallas City Council has taken a significant step towards transforming the city into a leading convention destination by awarding over $187 million in contracts for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas Master Plan. This includes a substantial $141. 5 million contract granted to architectural firms Perkins&Will and Populous for their design services focused on the Convention Center Expansion West of Lamar. The commitment to diversity is evident, as these firms have pledged to ensure over 50% participation from minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE). Furthermore, the Council has sanctioned $42 million in city contributions alongside $31 million in federal funding, which is supported by a $20 million grant from the Reconnecting Communities program through a partnership with the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

This financial backing will be directed towards constructing the foundations for three deck caps and the capping and foundation of the Lamar crossing near the convention center. The initiative reflects the city’s ambition to enhance its infrastructure and attract more visitors for conventions. Local M/WBE firm Metropolitan Infrastructure, PLLC, has also secured a contract exceeding $3. 7 million, further promoting local business involvement in this major project. As Dallas continues to evolve, these developments mark a crucial investment in its economic future.