Phoenix Convention Center Hits Its Stride
June 30, 2015
Nearly six years have passed since the $600 million expansion project was completed on the Phoenix Convention Center, providing attendees with nearly 900,000 square feet of event space.
Just steps away from downtown Phoenix, the convention center sits on a 26-acre campus and is linked to downtown and several hotels via the new light rail system.
The expansion provided several elements that positioned the convention center for the future. There is more than 300,000 sq. ft. of continuous exhibition hall space that connects the North and West Buildings, including 190,000 sq. ft. of virtually column-free exhibition space in North Building.
In addition, there is more than 150,000 sq. ft. of break out space and $3.2 million in art around the convention center.
"Since the Phoenix Convention Center's expansion, we have welcomed more than 1 million delegates to Phoenix," said Phoenix Convention Center Director John Chan. "Our expansion, which nearly tripled the size of our facility, enables us to attract larger high profile conventions and events such as the National Rifle Association (NRA), U.S. Greenbuild International Conference and MLB All Star Fanfest.”
Besides the space, the convention center planned for future growth with state-of-the-art technology. A fiber network runs through all areas of the convention center, including exhibit halls and meeting rooms.
Complimentary wireless access is available in the convention center and public hot spots. Electronic signs can be found throughout the convention center, allowing for easy modifications to signage in response to new event information.
Touch-control screens in each meeting room provide exhibitor control of lighting, audio and background music as well as an automated “help function” that allows guests to contact the operations center if issues arise.
This expansion, completed in 2009, has moved the convention center not only to the top 20 largest convention centers in the U.S., but also has moved the city of Phoenix to new levels for events and venue hosting.
Last year, the Super Bowl was held in Phoenix, and the Super Bowl Media Center was housed in the convention center.
A football field was erected in the convention center as well, to provide a unique experience for football fans of all ages. And with other events scheduled, including the Phoenix ComiCon, the future is bright for the rising Phoenix Convention Center.
“In 2015, we hosted the Super Bowl NFL Experience and look forward to hosting the fan events for the 2016 College Football Playoffs and 2017 NCAA Final Four,” Chan said. “Though bookings and attendance were impacted during the recession, we are now seeing an increase in business back to pre-recession levels for this year and in the near future."
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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