Phoenix Progresses on Entertainment District, Business District Expansion

A conceptual rendering demonstrates what the expansion of the Phoenix Convention Center south building could encompass in the future.

CITY OF PHOENIX DOCUMENTS

The city of Phoenix is taking major steps toward growing and revitalizing the area in and around downtown with a proposed entertainment district and expanded central business district.

Last year, the city restarted conversations for an expansion and renovation of the Phoenix Convention Center south building with a new hotel and an established entertainment district. The south building at the convention center is located on a block between Washington and Jefferson streets and 3rd and 5th streets just north of the Footprint Center and Chase Field.

The city said its blueprint for a long-term expansion of the Phoenix Convention Center includes a 150,000-square-foot exhibit hall expansion, about 800 to 1,200 additional hotel rooms and creating plans for the creation of a 24/7 entertainment district, which it said could help create a walkable, vibrant and safe area with a density of restaurants, bars, attractions, street performers, public art, lighting, landscaping, scooter docks and electric vehicle shuttles.

“This really allows us the opportunity to plant our flag as far as what the long-term vision and needs are for the Phoenix Convention Center in order for us to remain competitive in our market,” said Jerry Harper, the deputy director of the convention center, at a June economic development subcommittee meeting. “While not only does it allow for the reactivation of the 4th Street alignment, we also see it as presenting an opportunity for a brand new front door for the convention center.”