News Summary

Raleigh, North Carolina, has unveiled a $387 million project to expand the Raleigh Convention Center and relocate the Red Hat Amphitheater. The initiative aims to modernize the downtown area and stimulate economic growth through enhanced event capacity and facilities. Key features include 798,100 square feet of event space and pedestrian bridges connecting venues. The project is expected to significantly impact the local economy and cater to a diverse range of events, with completion anticipated by 2029.

Raleigh Announces $387 Million Downtown Expansion Including New Convention Center and Amphitheater Relocation

Major Downtown Development Project Unveiled

Raleigh, North Carolina, has revealed plans for a comprehensive expansion and relocation project at its convention and entertainment venues, with an estimated cost exceeding $387 million. The initiative aims to modernize the city’s downtown area and boost economic growth through improved facilities and increased event capacity.

Details of the Expansion and Relocation

The project encompasses a significant expansion of the Raleigh Convention Center and the relocation of the Red Hat Amphitheater. The new convention space will be built directly behind the existing facility, which will remain operational during construction. Meanwhile, the Red Hat Amphitheater is slated to move one block south, to better accommodate both venues and create a cohesive hub for events and entertainment in downtown Raleigh.

To facilitate smooth movement between the expanded convention center and the relocated amphitheater, the plan includes pedestrian bridges over McDowell Street. These bridges will connect old and new spaces, making it easier for visitors to navigate between venues.

Design and Functional Features

The expanded convention center will total 798,100 square feet of event space once completed, anticipated in 2029. Key features include 13 meeting rooms separate from the main event halls, as well as a large 50,000-square-foot divisible flex space and an 18,000-square-foot ballroom. The design emphasizes a modern aesthetic and features world-class amenities to attract both new and returning conferences.

The new spaces will be designed with flexibility in mind, capable of hosting sports events, keynote addresses, and meals. This versatility aims to make Raleigh a more attractive destination for a diverse array of events.

Community and Industry Input

The planning process involved active feedback from industry experts and community members, ensuring that the new facilities meet both professional standards and local needs. The project also integrates community input, with an emphasis on establishing a cultural hub that serves residents and visitors alike.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The expansion is expected to have a significant economic impact on downtown Raleigh. By increasing event capacity, more visitors are anticipated, which could increase spending at local vendors, hotels, and restaurants. The project is part of the city’s broader efforts to stimulate growth, including the construction of a new Omni Hotel nearby.

Project Timeline and Construction Details

While a specific timeline has not been finalized, construction is expected to take several years. Notably, the relocation of the Red Hat Amphitheater must be completed before the new convention space can commence construction. The process aims for the new convention center to be operational by 2029.

Additional Context and Background

The Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex, which includes four major city-owned venues, currently attracts over one million visitors annually. This expansion aligns with the city’s goal to enhance its status as a key regional destination for events, entertainment, and cultural activities.

The project reflects Raleigh’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure, providing versatile facilities, and fostering economic development by creating a vibrant downtown district equipped to host a wide variety of events and cultural experiences.

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Additional Resources

• ABC11: Raleigh Convention Center Expansion Completed
• Wikipedia: Raleigh, North Carolina
• Raleigh Today: Convention Center Expansion Renderings
• Google Search: Raleigh Convention Center expansion
• Broadway World: Convention Center Designs Unveiled
• Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina
• Spectrum Local News: Raleigh Convention Center Expansion Project
• Google News: Raleigh Convention Center

Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER

RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.