Tampa Convention Center completes $44.5 million expansion

The Tampa Convention Center (333 S Franklin Street) recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the grand opening of its highly anticipated Waterfront Meeting Rooms. This opening also signified the return of the closed stretch of Riverwalk just outside those meeting rooms.

This significant milestone marks the completion of the center’s largest renovation project since its inception in 1990. The Capital Improvement project involved a remarkable 23,500-square-foot expansion that added two stories to the existing structure, providing 18 brand-new waterfront rooms. These versatile spaces are designed to accommodate a wide range of meetings and events, further enhancing the convention center’s ability to cater to conferences and conventions in the Tampa Bay region.

Major improvements to Tampa Convention Center

“The city of Tampa is a world-class destination deserving of an upgraded convention center that complements its economic and population growth,” said Chuck Jablon, Senior Vice President of Construction for Skanska’s Florida building operations. “By executing the modernization of the Tampa Convention Center, Skanska is proud to have played a part in bringing that vision to life and delivering a project that will provide long-term economic value for the community.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the Tampa Convention Center prioritized comprehensive updates to its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. These energy-efficient improvements will not only reduce the center’s environmental impact but also result in substantial cost savings for clients and further enhance the overall guest experience.

Meeting rooms are now available to rent

With the completion of the new Waterfront Meeting Rooms, the Tampa Convention Center now offers a distinctive and captivating space for event planners. These beautifully designed rooms allow the center to remain competitive within the meetings and events industry, serving as a significant economic engine for the City of Tampa. Event organizers and attendees can now benefit from the enhanced facilities and unparalleled views that the Waterfront Meeting Rooms provide.

The project’s total cost amounted to approximately $44.5 million, with Phase 2 alone accounting for $38 million. Skanska’s skillful management of the project budget resulted in savings that the Tampa Convention Center utilized to fund additional renovations, ensuring the center’s continued excellence and ability to meet the evolving needs of clients and guests.

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