The Kentucky Exposition Center recently broke ground on a multi-million-dollar renovation project.
The project, happening in two phases, is a more than $390 million investment to upgrade the facility.
Total Building Enhancements
Phase one of the renovation at the Kentucky Exposition Center is projected to cost $180 million.
This phase will include a new interconnected 350,000-square-foot multi-purpose building with the capabilities to host events such as livestock competitions, equine events, trade shows and sporting events.
The location of this new space will be directly east of the existing Broadbent Arena and north of the West Wing.
Notable components that make up the space include the Kentucky Exposition Center’s largest Class A exhibit hall, as well as adjacent meeting rooms and offices.
Phase two of the renovation is projected to cost $213 million.
This phase will see the redevelopment of the West Wing, West Hall, and Pavilion into a singular, connected 249,000-square-foot multi-purpose building that includes Class A exhibit space, large pre-function space, and new meeting rooms.
Enhancements to existing food & beverage operations will also happen during Phase II, creating a total of 40,000-square-feet of space to service and feed the millions of guests that attend events on the property throughout any given year.
Phases I & II are estimated to cost a combined $393 million.
“Through the generous support of the Kentucky General Assembly, we now have the opportunity to implement our collective vision of enhancing our facilities so we can continue doing what we do best, and that’s attracting, producing, hosting, and growing global events here in Louisville, Kentucky,” said David S. Beck, President & CEO of Kentucky Venues. “Our facility team is excited to break ground on this ambitious renovation with the support of the public and clients to bring people together and grow Kentucky’s economy to a new level of success in a much bigger way.”
More Capacity And More Events
An additional $76 million in facility enhancements include new and improved infrastructure, wayfinding, backup power, and more.
Work is also underway to redesign and renovate two remaining vehicular entrance gates with relevant amenities, digital wayfinding, and modern payment technology.
“The Design and Renovation Committee has worked tirelessly to bring to life a facility that surpasses the ambitious goals set in 2022. By expanding our sellable Class A space by over 70%, we are not only increasing our capacity to host larger and more diverse events but also reinforcing our commitment to supporting Kentucky’s thriving agricultural and trade show sectors,” said David Wallace, Chairman of the Design and Renovation Committee and Vice-Chair of the Kentucky State Fair Board. “The Kentucky Exposition Center is a testament to our dedication to driving economic growth and creating memories for all who attend. Today’s unveiling represents a new era for our state, one that will benefit our communities across the Commonwealth.”
Construction on the first new multi-purpose building is set to begin in 2025.
Construction on enabling projects to install the necessary infrastructure for future phases will be ongoing.
For more information, visit kyexpo.org.
