Los Angeles Aims for Olympic Transformation with Convention Center Renovation
Los Angeles is committed to enhancing its reputation on the world stage—city officials are moving forward with a substantial $2.6 billion update of the LA Convention Center (LACC). The goal? To rejuvenate the downtown area just in time for the 2028 Olympics.
Kimberly Wiedmark, the general manager of LACC, mentioned that while full construction is set to wrap up by 2029, about 80 percent of the renovation should be finished when the Olympic and Paralympic Games kick off.
This ambitious overhaul aims to innovate the decades-old complex, turning it into a modern megastructure featuring a rooftop terrace, massive digital screens, a contemporary event space, and a striking glass atrium hovering over Pico Boulevard.
The plan envisions a connection between the South and West Halls and a new facility that stretches across Pico. This will create over 750,000 square feet of uninterrupted convention space, bringing the total up to more than a million square feet.
Additionally, the project will increase exhibit halls by around 190,000 square feet, add 95,000 square feet of multipurpose areas, and include upgraded meeting rooms. There’s also a future-focused lobby, referred to as the “Skynode,” designed to impress the throngs of visitors expected during the Olympics.
More than just a space for conventions, the redesigned center aims to feature outdoor terraces, pedestrian-friendly plazas, enhanced dining options, and panoramic views of the city skyline.
Proponents of the renovation suggest it could inject over $150 million annually into the local economy and generate upwards of 15,000 jobs. Government officials have pointed out that the expansion has already secured three significant conventions, potentially attracting 55,000 attendees and nearly $100 million in spending to the region.
Mayor Karen Bass has been a strong advocate for this initiative, viewing it as a key part of her vision to reimagine downtown before the Olympic events. “The benefits of this investment are already visible,” she claimed back in January, referencing the anticipated number of meetings prompted by the planned expansion.
Even though the renovation won’t be entirely done, it’s expected to play a crucial role during the LA28 games, with the LACC slated to host events such as fencing, judo, taekwondo, wrestling, and table tennis.
