A proposed Phase 3 expansion, that would increase the capacity of the Convention Center by 33 percent, is moving forward. In Spring 2010, the Convention Center acquired six acres of bayfront land adjacent to the current facility where the proposed expansion would be built.

Over the next 18-24 months, the Convention Center will begin the environmental review and permitting process, engage in outreach to our clients, community members and stakeholders as well as finalize the expansion design. The City of San Diego, under Mayor Sanders' leadership, is exploring financing options for the estimated $750 million project.

According to data presented to the Mayor’s Citizen Task Force on the Convention Center Expansion, a proposed expansion could mean an additional $698 million annually in regional economic impact, $17.1 million in new tax revenue and 6,900 new jobs in addition to the 12,500 jobs already supported by the Convention Center.

Based on several studies, the Convention Center is recommending adding approximately 200,000 – 225,000 sf of exhibit space; 100,000 sf of meeting space; and an 80,000 sf ballroom. The target date for completion is mid-2015. However, major civic projects like an expansion have long-term planning horizons and any number of unforeseeable factors could influence the timeframe.

Links

• Mayor's Citizen Task Force on the San Diego Convention Center Project.
• Port of San Diego - Convention Center Expansion Project
• Expansion Public Workshop Presentation
• Expansion Public Workshop Summary Report