Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1503289
B M & T ••• July/August 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 45 tors. The Convention Center District will be an authentic Dallas urban experience that will include restaurants, retail, lodg- ing and entertainment options. "This new building and surrounding development are exactly what our cus- tomers need and have been asking for," said D. Bradley Kent, Visit Dallas SVP and Chief Sales Officer. "Dallas is already a great meetings and conven- tions destination, with the accessibility of two major airports, affordable labor and an outstanding hotel product. The new center and Convention Center District will enhance Dallas' competi- tive position and put us on par with other destinations that have already invested in their buildings." The new convention center will address the needs of modern meeting planners, providing ballroom and break- out space Dallas has been lacking. The center is expected to nearly double annual attendance and associated rev- enue for the city. "The expansion of the convention center will give us the opportunity to consider Dallas as a destination for our future annual meetings," said Jennifer Krsanac, CMP, Director of Meeting Services for North American Spine Society "Without the new expansion, the convention center did not provide our meeting ample space and adequate flow for our meeting attendees. I am excited to follow this project and its positive impact on the city of Dallas and the future of the meeting industry." ABOUT VISIT DALLAS Visit Dallas is dedicated to promoting Dallas as the ideal visitor and convention destination. Dallas, the ninth-largest city in the United States and the leading busi- ness and financial center in the Southwest, offers travelers an unparal- leled array of amenities, a central loca- tion, and easy accessibility with two major airports. With 20 vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, including the nation's largest contiguous arts district and notable CityPASS attractions, there is a Dallas destination to suit every style. For more information, visit visitdallas.com.