Title
Phoenix Convention Center Expansion Master Plan
Description
This report provides the Economic Development and Equity Subcommittee information on a Conceptual Master Plan for future expansion and development of the Phoenix Convention Center (PCC) South Building site as recommended in the PCC Market Feasibility Study.
THIS ITEM IS FOR DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION.
Report
Summary
In 2019, the consulting firm of Conventions, Sports & Leisure International (CSL) conducted a Market Feasibility Study for the PCC. The study included an analysis of the PCC's competitive market position along with recommendations to enhance the PCC's market capture through near and long-term space and site planning, convention hotel development, and destination enhancements. In 2022, an update to the study was completed to evaluate market changes and impacts on the convention industry resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings and recommendations contained within the study were based on comparable convention facilities, local market assessments, interviews with key visitor industry stakeholders and survey feedback from PCC clients. The updated study resulted in three key findings and recommendations:
1) Plan for the expansion of up to 150,000 square feet of exhibition hall space in the next six to ten years.
2) Increase the inventory of convention hotel rooms near the PCC by 800-1,200 in the next five years.
3) Initiate a planning effort to identify and create opportunities to develop a vibrant 24/7 entertainment district near the PCC.
In 2019, the City of Phoenix held multiple community and stakeholder outreach meetings to gather public input on the future of the PCC South Building Site. Additionally, presentations about the PCC’s South Building were made to several community groups and organizations that have a vested interest in the future of downtown Phoenix. A common theme from the community feedback was to revisit the original Fourth Street alignment on the South Building block to provide better connectivity between Washington and Jefferson streets. This request, along with other enhancements recommended in the CSL study, was incorporated into the Conceptual Master Plan.
PCC staff, in collaboration with the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Phoenix), will provide the Economic Development and Equity Subcommittee with an overview of the Conceptual Master Plan that incorporates recommendations from the Market Feasibility Study for the PCC and Surrounding Hospitality assets.
Location
Council Districts: 7 and 8
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Interim Deputy City Manager John Chan and the Phoenix Convention Center Department.