FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The topping out of Broward County Convention Center’s east expansion and hotel was held during a public ceremony last month.
As part of Matthews Southwest’s $1 billion multi-phased Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center project, the campus’ east expansion and new hotel is the second phase of construction. The stand-alone building features ballrooms, exhibit space, and a kitchen that will service the entire 1.5 million-square-foot convention center. Additionally, an 801-room hotel operated by Omni Fort Lauderdale features additional meeting and ballroom space, multiple restaurant options, an amenity deck, a rooftop bar, and an array of luxury amenities.
The construction of the east expansion and new hotel follows the completion of the first-phase western expansion building.
“This is the beginning of a legacy. These projects stand as a testament to the dedication of those here today and those who came before us. This hotel and convention center will be a source of pride in our community. I believe it is a true example of the power of collaboration as we work together to achieve more,” said Broward Mayor Nan Rich during the ceremony.
Additionally, over the last two years, the construction team has been executing the project’s work around the convention center’s continuous operations as well as working adjacent to two active Broward County port terminals serving two different cruise lines.
“This is an exciting milestone for the Broward County Convention Center expansion and the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. When it opens, the expanded convention center and hotel will take full advantage of the amenities of this scenic location on the Intracoastal Waterway and offer a vibrant new destination for visitors and residents alike to enjoy,” says Jack Matthews, president of Matthews Southwest. “We are happy to be working with Omni once again and appreciate the collaborative partnership with Broward County, as well as our talented hotel and convention center architects and design-build team.”
The second phase of the project is scheduled for completion in late 2025.
