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On Tuesday, VICA attended the Jobs and Economic Development Committee meeting at City Hall to voice strong support for the Los Angeles Convention Center Expansion Project. During public comment, VICA highlighted the project's transformative potential, emphasizing that modernizing the Convention Center is not merely an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a strategic investment in the city's long-term economic vitality.
The expansion will add 190,000 square feet of exhibit space, 55,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and 95,000 square feet of multipurpose space, generating an estimated $165 million in annual visitor spending and contributing over $1.2 billion in tax revenue over the next 30 years. VICA stressed that without these critical upgrades, Los Angeles risks falling behind competitors like Anaheim and Las Vegas, where modern convention facilities have become major economic drivers. With the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the project is vital for attracting more prominent, more lucrative events that fuel business for local hotels, restaurants, and retailers.
City officials have acknowledged the significant challenge of balancing the Convention Center expansion with recovery efforts following the Palisades fire, which caused over $350 million in damage to city infrastructure. The City Administrative Officer, Matt Szabo, noted that completing the expansion by 2028 may no longer be feasible due to the extensive rebuilding required in fire-affected areas.
Despite these obstacles, VICA remains committed to advocating for the Convention Center expansion as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and increased revenue for essential city services. As discussions evolve, VICA will work closely with city leaders to ensure this vital project remains a priority, balancing the city's recovery with its future economic prospects.
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