Reimagined Cincinnati Convention Center Unveiled to Public in Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Project Partners and Community Members Celebrate the Building’s $264 Million Transformation

CINCINNATI (January 7, 2026) – Leaders from the City of Cincinnati, Hamilton County, State of Ohio, Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. (3CDC), and other project partners and key stakeholders gathered this morning for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the Cincinnati Convention Center’s $264 million transformation.

The ceremony took place inside the convention center’s first-floor concourse outside the exhibit halls, where project partners and civic leaders — including Mayor Aftab Pureval, City Manager Sheryl Long, Hamilton County Board of Commissioners President Stephanie Summerow Dumas, and Director of the Ohio Department of Development Lydia Mihalik — spoke about the project’s significance, its positive impact on convention business and tourism, and the collaboration and strategic planning that made it possible. The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

The 18-month renovation project transformed the outdated 55-year-old structure into a sought-after space for convention and event industry leaders. The modern convention center boasts a sleek glass façade, upgraded meeting rooms and ballrooms, and a brand-new roof. The third-floor Queen City Ballroom (former junior ballroom) underwent a total renovation and now features a 6,000-square-foot outdoor roof terrace adjacent to the space. Additional improvements to building systems and technology enhance energy efficiency and optimize the building for high-caliber conventions and events.

“The complete transformation of the Cincinnati Convention Center marks a monumental moment for our city,” Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval said. “It opens the door to new possibilities, brings energy and vibrancy to the heart of Cincinnati, and illustrates the power of sustained collaboration among partners who share a bold vision.”

The project was made possible through collaboration at every step from the City of Cincinnati, Hamilton County, the State of Ohio, 3CDC, and Visit Cincy. Working together, and alongside countless other partners, these organizations united their vision, expertise, and resources to successfully execute this once-in-a-generation reimagining.

“This 750,000-square-foot building has been transformed into a modern, world-class destination for the convention and events industry,” Caitlin Felvus, CLO and EVP of HR for 3CDC, said. “It’s flexible, energy-efficient, and filled with natural light—and it is designed to serve Cincinnati for decades to come.”

The revitalized convention center is the second completed milestone in the transformation of the Convention District, complementing the recently unveiled Elm Street Plaza, a two-and-a-half-acre flexible outdoor park and event venue. Elm Street Plaza’s direct pedestrian connection to the newly renovated first-floor exhibit hall makes it a sought-after amenity for meeting and event professionals, offering attendees a welcoming introduction to the city just steps from the center’s doors. Other ongoing and planned improvements include the renovation of the Convention Center Garage, a new Marriott convention headquarters hotel, and multiple mixed-use development projects on key surrounding properties.

Every project in the reimagined Convention District is strategically important to Cincinnati’s urban core and the broader region. The reimagined convention center and additional investment will set Cincinnati apart from peer cities—elevating its convention offerings, attracting larger and more prestigious events, and positively impacting the center city economy on micro and macro levels. The project positions Cincinnati to gain national attention and unlock new opportunities for the region.

Construction on the Cincinnati Convention Center began in July 2024, with Messer Construction Co.—in partnership with Triversity Construction and Jostin Construction—serving as the construction manager. Moody Nolan served as the Architect of Record for the project with TVS as the interior design consultant. Moody Nolan and Hargreaves Jones collaborated on the design of Elm Street Plaza.

The renovated convention center will welcome Redsfest, the Cincinnati Reds’ popular two-day fan fest, as its first official event on January 16 and 17. Additional information about the new convention center, including upcoming conventions and exhibitor resources, can be found at https://cincyconventions.com/.

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