LOUISVILLE, KY — Kentucky Venues recently celebrated a major milestone in the largest expansion and renovation project in the Kentucky Exposition Center's 70-year history. Local and state officials, business leaders, clients, and Kentucky Venues staff gathered as the final structural beam was hoisted atop the facility's newest building during a topping-off celebration. Guests signed the beam before it was raised into place, leaving a permanent mark on the building's structure.
Phase I of the expansion and renovation project represents a $180 million investment in the future of the facility and the Commonwealth's tourism and events industries. The project enhances Kentucky's ability to attract national and international events while continuing to serve the clients who have called the Kentucky Exposition Center home for decades. When complete, the project, along with the planned Phase II, will position the Kentucky Exposition Center as the fifth-largest convention center in the United States.
The new 350,000-square-foot building on the northwest side of the property, equivalent to roughly six football fields, will become the facility's largest Class A exhibit space. The multi-purpose facility, designed by Schmidt Associates, features agriculture-ready infrastructure including dedicated washrooms, a milking parlor suite, and flexible configurations to support livestock competitions and equine events alongside sporting tournaments, trade shows, and conventions. Multiple major entrances, food service areas, and meeting rooms round out a space built to serve both agriculture and convention clients.
The project has mobilized up to 4,000 tradespeople and a 150-member design team from Kentucky and across the country. Construction on the new building is expected to be complete by the end of 2026, with events beginning to occupy the space in 2027.
Phase II of the project, a $213 million investment, will reimagine the West Wing, West Hall, and Pavilion, adding significant class A exhibit space, expanded pre-function areas, additional meeting rooms, and support enhanced food and beverage operations. Planning and utility work for Phase II construction have already begun. Significant construction of Phase II is anticipated to begin after Phase I is completed.
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The expansion and renovation project is being built by Calhoun Construction Services.
