New York Governor David A. Paterson announced on July 2 that the Public Authority Control Board (PACB) has approved the General Project Plan (GPP) for the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The proposed renovation and expansion will now move forward and construction on the site will begin immediately. "In these challenging economic times, it is vital that we invest in projects that spur local business and create new employment opportunities. This project achieves both, while also ensuring that we improve upon an invaluable asset," Governor Paterson said.
The Javits expansion will generate close to $880 million in direct and indirect sales, as well as 9,000 direct and indirect construction and construction related jobs.
"The PACB approval brings us even closer towards the long-awaited renovation and expansion of the Jacob Javits Convention Center. These improvements will allow the Convention Center to remain New York City's primary venue for large conventions, while continuing to attract countless visitors from the United States and abroad. This is a significant investment that will help secure a prosperous future for both the City and State," said ESD President & CEO Dennis Mullen.
Barbara Lampen, president of the New York Convention Center Development Corporation, added: "We are thrilled to have the PACB's support to move forward with important improvements to the Jacob Javits Convention Center. The renovation and expansion of the Javits will enable New York City to continue to attract business and remain a premier convention, trade show and event destination."
Currently bounded by 40th Street to the north, 34th Street to the south, 11th Avenue to the east and 12th Avenue to the west, the Convention Center project has two components that will both renew and expand the facility. The renovation project for Javits responds to the immediate needs of the convention and trade show industry, improves the existing building conditions and enables the Javits Center to continue operating and complements the ongoing development of the West Side. The existing operating conditions will remain unchanged, with construction being scheduled and sequenced to maintain continuity of the Convention Center at all times.
A 100,000 square foot expansion will be constructed on the block bounded by 39th Street, 11th Avenue, 40th Street, and 12th Avenue. The expansion will contain 40,000 net square feet of exhibition space. Pre-function and registration areas, support and core functions (restrooms, food service areas), and a truck court and loading docks will be located within the remaining 60,000 square feet. Upon completion of the renovation, the 40,000 square feet of exhibition space will remain in service and will complement existing operations.
"The PACB's approval of the much-needed renovation of the Javits Convention Center will enable New York City to remain one of the country's leading convention destinations, attracting countless visitors to the city from around the world," said Scott Stringer, Manhattan Borough president.
The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center opened in 1986 as the successor to the Coliseum Convention Center (formerly at 59th Street and Broadway). Since its opening, Javits has been New York City's primary venue for large conventions, exhibitions and major trade shows. These events are key contributors to the City and State economy, stimulating direct and indirect employment, economic activity, and tax revenues, and strongly supporting the city's hotel, restaurant, tourism and entertainment industries.