Wisconsin Center District reveals major expansion project

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Center District revealed a major expansion project on Friday, March 6. 

Officials released new renderings of just some of the changes to come. 

The expansion would double the square footage of the convention center, and add at least 24 new meeting rooms -- all for a cost of $425 million. 

Breaking it down a news release says, in order to remain competitive among its peer cities for more frequent and bigger convention business, the new facility must:

• Increase the exposition hall square footage by 112,000 sq. ft., totaling 300,000 contiguous sq. ft. plus integrate six loading docks to support the added square footage;
• Offer a ballroom with a minimum of 30,000 sq. ft. and a minimum seating capacity of 2,000;
• Add no fewer than 24 new meeting rooms; and
• Include no fewer than 400 parking spaces.
  The expansion is projected to generate more than $12 billion over 30 years. 
  

“Revealing our vision for the Wisconsin Center expansion with the board and to our community represents a major step forward,” said Marty Brooks, President and CEO of the WCD. “It is essential that this design seamlessly integrates into our city’s landscape and is a place people are proud to show off. We want this space to build inclusivity, experiences, memories and momentum and drive economic impact for our great city.”

The Wisconsin Center District Board will vote on the proposal April 2. 

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