Overview: Bigger, better, more connected-Dallas is delivering the most important public investment in a generation: a new convention center and district that will drive jobs, housing, and growth for decades. The Master Plan is moving forward with technical rigor, transparency, discipline, and a momentum that Dallas can be proud of for decades to come.
- Funding was voter approved in 2018, the schematic design is finalized, the orientation is Council-approved and avoids major conflicts with TxDOT and Union Pacific, keeping the project on track and within budget.
- Every step of this plan has been tested — through 450+ community engagements over four years, technical analysis, and a Mayor’s Taskforce that helped align public priorities with private-sector reality.
- This project is being funded through a phased financing strategy — which includes a short-term bridge loan now to provide immediate access to capital at the current rate, so they can start the early work now, and stay on schedule. A phased financing strategy is common on large scale projects such as this — by borrowing in stages, they will reduce interest expenses and can collect another full year of PFZ and HOT revenue before issuing long-term bonds in 2026. This approach isn’t just about speed — it’s about fiscal discipline. By borrowing only what they need, when they need it, they avoid interest costs on unused funds and reduce total debt service over time.
- This project is already producing results: 64 major conventions are booked, representing approximately $1.66 billion in economic impact, with another 109 conventions under consideration.
- Project Finance Zone (PFZ) / Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) has generated $193 million to date, outperforming expectations by $66 million. A $1 billion bridge loan is under Council review to fund enabling works, followed by long-term bonds in 2026-no general fund support required.
- Construction has been underway, with the move of utilities and now demolition begins this summer.
- Opening date is 2029-with a design built for today and planned for tomorrow’s growth.
1. What is the origin of the KBHCCD Master Plan?
In 2018, the City began evaluating options for a failing convention center. In 2022, voters approved a dedicated funding source through the hotel occupancy tax. That wasn’t symbolic-it was a clear mandate to replace outdated infrastructure, reconnect downtown, and anchor long-term investment in the heart of the city. Voters gave them the mandate — and they’re delivering on it.
2. Why did the original layout change?
The original concept conflicted with TxDOT right-of-way plans and Union Pacific rail operations. In March 2024, the City Council approved a reoriented layout that protects the full program while avoiding right-of-way delays and costly redesigns. This updated plan maintains operational continuity and accelerates project delivery.
Source: City of Dallas (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
