City Dedicates Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center Expansion

The newly transformed Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center was dedicated with a public opening and celebration on January 26, 2016 moving San Antonio into a higher tier in the convention market with spaces and amenities for larger events.  Mayor Ivy Tayor, City Manager Sheryl Sculley and Convention Sports and Entertainment Director Mike Sawaya had high praise for the Hunt/Zachry/Populous/Marmon Mok team’s expertise, creativity and performance in meeting the fast-track schedule.

Construction on the 750,000 square foot, $325 million addition began in February 2013 and includes a new entrance and presence on Market Street, direct connection to the River Walk and Hemisfair Park, the City’s largest indoor public courtyard lobby for socializing and relaxing, as well as a second floor outdoor reception balcony overlooking Market Street.  Features include 270,000 square feet of new exhibition space, 70 flexible meeting rooms, an 85,000 square foot multi-purpose space and a 55,000 square foot Stars and Night ballroom, the largest in the State of Texas.   A major part of the transformation is technological to accommodate tech-savy guests and meeting rooms with the latest touch-sensitive LED screens and equipment.  The Convention Center’s west wing will be demolished in March making way for a new entrance and connection to an expanded Hemisfair Park and Civic Lawn.