Las Vegas Kickstarts Its Biggest Business Travel Development in 60 Years

In order to meet the demand of Las Vegas’ growing business travel market, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority is currently working on a proposal to develop an expanded conference and events hub.

The $2.3 billion Las Vegas Global Business District will be the LVCVA’s largest economic development initiative since the Las Vegas Convention Center was built in the late 1950s.

The Las Vegas Convention Center currently operates at capacity and, according to the LVCVA, many large clients express interest in expanding their shows. Attracting new events and conventions is another primary motivator for building a new space.

The project includes two phases, which includes an exhibit and supporting meeting space followed by a renovation of the existing convention center for a total 1.8-million-square-foot expansion. The total facility, including public and service areas, would extend nearly 5.7 million square feet by its completion.

Although news of the expansion is generating buzz, it would be five to eight years before the two-phase project is completed.

The initiative was announced in late 2014, but the first steps towards turning it into a reality are just starting.

A proposal to acquire the Riviera Hotel & Casino will be presented to the tourism board’s board of directors Friday to kickstart the organization’s land acquisition strategy.