Dayton Convention Center’s 50th Anniversary Celebration & Business Community Preview

Nov 6, 2023

November 6, 2023

Dayton, OH

 

On November 1st, the Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority welcomed 200 guests to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Dayton Convention Center and preview the completed and in-progress renovations. Government leaders and industry representatives attended, including large and small business, nonprofit, education, arts, health care, hospitality and entertainment, military and defense, and manufacturing. Speakers and special guests included City Commissioner Christopher Shaw, County Commissioners Lieberman, Rice and Dodge, Regina Holman representing Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce President Chris Kershner, Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau President/CEO Jacquie Powell, LWC Principal Architect/Designer John Fabelo, Messer Construction, MCCFA Board Chairperson Mike Stevens and members of the MCCFA Board of Directors, ASM Global’s Executive Team, and MCCFA Executive Director/CEO Pam Plageman. Commendations were presented by the Office of Secretary of State Frank LaRose and State Representative Andrea White on behalf of the local state delegation.

 

The program highlighted a progressive culinary experience while guests viewed the renovations that will return the center to a premier facility for conventions, meetings, and events. An exceptional guest journey can be expected from the timeless finishes, upgraded HVAC, restrooms, and escalators, and elevated services in culinary, Mills James audio visual and sales/event management offered by ASM Global’ s professional management team.

 

The $40+ million in renovations will position the Dayton region as a premiere event destination, with plans to capture an additional 25% of the market through its upgraded amenities. The 68,000 square foot exhibit hall will receive floor pockets for data and power, a full-perimeter service corridor, new architectural ceiling and LED lighting, new acoustic panels, a VIP suite overlooking the exhibit floor, and new air wall partitions to allow for multiple simultaneous events. The column-free exhibit/flex hall is the largest event space of its kind in the region.

 

Speakers highlighted the showpiece – a park-like plaza entry and a third-floor outdoor terrace overlooking Fifth Street and the Levitt Pavilion. The balcony will be rentable for private dinners and a unique outdoor experience.

 

Guests were also treated to a display of 50 years of Dayton Convention Center history. Renovations are expected to be completed in Q1 2025. A time capsule, sealed in 1973 when the Convention Center was dedicated, will be reopened during the grand reopening celebrations.

 

The Dayton Convention Center remains open for business during the renovations, meeting the needs of the community and returning clients. Its goal is to position itself as a venue-of-choice in the region, while collaborating with other Ohio venues from the CCC+D corridor.

 

Special thanks are extended to the celebration’s Master of Ceremonies, Dan Edwards of DJ Edwards Group LLC, and sponsoring partners Mills James, Prime Time Party & Event Rental, and House of Joy.