Bloomington, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Bloomington Convention Center expansion is advancing as demolition and foundation work are underway. Key updates include the imminent first concrete pour and a recently approved funding resolution. The project aims to increase capacity with modern meeting space and a new hotel, enhancing local economic impact. The groundbreaking ceremony is set for June, with completion anticipated in the coming years.
Bloomington Convention Center Expansion Progresses Towards Significant Milestone
The expansion of the Bloomington Convention Center has reached a critical point as demolition of the old NAPA Auto Parts building at the corner of 3rd and Walnut Streets took place in the third week of July. This construction work is underway on the block south of 3rd Street, between College Avenue and Walnut. The project is being managed by Weddle Brothers, with project manager Andrew Scere providing updates to Monroe County’s Capital Improvement Board (CIB) on September 17, 2025.
As of now, foundation excavations for the expansion are in progress, with the first concrete pour scheduled for Friday, marking a significant milestone for the project. This upcoming pour is a culmination of months of preparatory work and planning, contributing to the overall timeline for the new facility.
Funding and Budget Details
During a recent meeting, CIB treasurer Geoff McKim indicated that the city council would consider a resolution to request the Food and Beverage Tax Advisory Commission (FABTAC) to review funding for the CIB’s 2026 budget later that evening. While FABTAC is required by state law to review funding, it does not have the authority to approve or deny it. The convention center expansion is financed through the city’s share of a 1% countywide food and beverage tax revenue; however, it is not included in the CIB’s 2026 budget.
The CIB’s budget stands at $8,958,017, primarily aimed at covering “other” services including testing, environmental services, utility connections, and construction testing. The city council voted 8-1 in favor of the funding resolution, highlighting the division of opinion on the project. Council member Kate Rosenbarger voiced concerns about public support for the convention center expansion.
Construction and Features of the Expanded Center
The construction bids awarded for the project total $50.9 million, which offers approximately $1.1 million available for optional bid alternates. Six bid alternates were considered for the existing convention center. Recommendations for essential upgrades include additional kitchen equipment and improvements to audio-visual technology. The project architect, Eddie Layton from Schmidt Associates, revealed that the existing kitchen will primarily function as a warming kitchen and will be upgraded to conform to current health codes.
Plans for the Bloomington Convention Center expansion involve creating over 70,000 square feet of modern meeting and event space, culminating in over 100,000 square feet in total. The current Monroe Convention Center, which originally opened in 1991, is home to over 500 events annually. The expansion is designed to accommodate larger groups with a capacity for up to 600 attendees.
An integrated 225-room host hotel is also planned to accompany the convention center development, further enhancing the area’s hospitality offerings. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for June 3, with the overall expansion projected for completion in 2027, promising an increase in economic impact for local businesses and the community.
Conclusion
The planned expansion of the Bloomington Convention Center is set to enhance the city’s capacity to host a wider range of events and attract larger groups, all while ensuring that the facility meets modern standards. As the project progresses with crucial milestones being reached, local authorities are actively addressing funding and support to bring the vision to fruition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What significant milestone is the Bloomington Convention Center expansion reaching?
The first concrete pour is scheduled for Friday, marking a significant milestone for the project.
What is the total budget for the CIB?
The CIB’s budget is $8,958,017, primarily covering “other” services like testing, environmental services, utility connections, and construction testing.
What are the plans for the existing kitchen in the Bloomington Convention Center?
The existing kitchen will primarily serve as a warming kitchen and will be upgraded to meet current health codes.
Key Features of the Bloomington Convention Center Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Construction Start | Demolition completed July 2025 |
| First Concrete Pour | Scheduled for Friday |
| Total Construction Bids | $50.9 million |
| Proposed Total Space | Over 100,000 square feet |
| Event Capacity | Up to 600 attendees |
| Host Hotel | 225 rooms planned |
| Projected Completion | 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- B Square Bulletin: Bloomington Convention Center Update
- IDS News: Bloomington Convention Center Name Change
- Herald Times: Groundbreaking for Convention Center Expansion
- Google Search: Bloomington Convention Center expansion
- Wikipedia: Convention center
Author: Construction TX News
TEXAS STAFF WRITER The TEXAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructiontxnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Texas and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Texas Construction Expo, major infrastructure unveilings, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Texas and the Texas Building Branch, plus leading businesses in construction and real estate that power the local economy such as Austin Commercial and CMiC Global. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
