FORT WORTH, TEXAS — The City of Fort Worth has announced plans for Phase II of the Fort Worth Convention Center overhaul.
Totaling $606 million in costs, the project will deliver a new, flexible convention center. The convention building will replace an arena dated back to 1968 and modernize an existing building that has not been significantly renovated since a 2003 expansion.
In December of last year, the city cut the ribbon on the $95 million Phase I of the Fort Worth Convention Center. Plans for Phase II were presented to the city council on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
Upon completion, Phase II will comprise a four-story structure with a central tower, a plaza with native prairie green space connected to General Worth Square and terraces for outdoor events. The facility will total 257,268 square feet of exhibit hall space; 60,917 square feet of meeting room space; and 74,033 square feet of ballroom space, as well as 16 loading docks.
Construction will begin in early 2027, with the demolition of the existing arena. Completion of the project is scheduled for early 2030. The center will remain operational during construction.
Atlanta-based firm TVS, in collaboration with Fort Worth-based Bennett Partners, designed the second phase. The construction manager at risk (CMAR) joint venture that delivered Phase I will remain in place for Phase II. The joint venture includes AECOMHunt, Byrne Construction and EJ Smith Construction. Broaddus & Associates and Elements of Architecture will oversee project management.
“Our customers shared their feedback, and we responded,” said Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth, in a statement. “From flexible space configurations that allow for more breakout sessions to ceiling heights required for sports competitions, the expansion and renovation will provide modern amenities and an authentic Texas experience attendees are seeking. Even within the ballroom, guests will immediately feel that they are in Fort Worth, Texas.”
— Hayden Spiess