Minneapolis Convention Center Will Get $14.5 Million Facelift

June 25, 2014
Minneapolis Convention Center Will Get $14.5 Million Facelift alt

The Minneapolis Convention Center will have a nearly $14.5 million facelift to enhance the “relationship building” for clients and to remain competitive by being more efficient, flexible and better able to respond to the needs of the customers, according to venue officials.

The enhancements will take place during a two-year period, while the MCC prepares for a busy time in its schedule

Some of the improvements include the Visitor Information Center, which is located in the main lobby and is being completely renovated, as well as moved closer to the facility’s main entrance on Second Avenue South to better serve guests.

In addition, a mezzanine level is being added that will add flexible space and can be used to hold events and includes seating and a lounge area for additional networking and meeting space. A bar will be added in the future as well.

The stairs that used to be located in the main lobby are being replaced with an elevator to add accessibility to the front of the facility.

Beyond those more visible changes, further improvements in 2014 are as follows:

•           Carpet replacement on second floor meeting spaces and lobbies

•           New energy-efficient escalators for the lobbies of Halls C, D, and E (Skyway escalators on either end of the MCC were completed earlier in 2014)

•           Color changing LED lights for the exhibit hall interior domes will provide more options for meeting planners to enhance the exhibit hall decor

•           Artwork will be added throughout the building from Corporate Art Force

The MCC is working with Corporate Art Force to provide art from local artists that will be displayed on a six-month rotation.

 “We are using this art to highlight the creative community of Minneapolis to our hundreds of thousands of visitors each year,” said Jeff Johnson, MCC executive director. “And doing so will also add some texture and interest to our 1.6 million square feet of space.”

These changes will not only make the convention center more welcoming and convenient for visitors, but also more environmentally friendly, according to venue officials.

The MCC is committed to sustainability and recently achieved level one certification to the ASTM standard pertaining to the evaluation and selection of venues for environmentally sustainable meetings, events, trade shows and conferences.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.