Fort Worth names construction firms for Convention Center expansion

Published on November 30, 2022

The City of Fort Worth announced Tuesday it has selected three leading North Texas construction firms to lead the Fort Worth Convention Center’s expansion.

The firms, each based in and with deep ties to North Texas, were chosen based on their extensive past experience.

Under the contract, the firms will manage the full scope of the first phase of the project’s construction for up to $30 million.

The expansion will take place in two phases, and the facility will remain operational during both. The first phase includes building new state-of-the-art food and beverage facilities, demolishing the annex, realigning Commerce Street to create a site pad for a future convention hotel, and increasing the center’s loading docks. This phase is expected to begin construction in mid-2023 and be completed in 2026.

“The AECOM Hunt/Byrne/EJ Smith team combines a national builder with 35 years of extensive convention center expansion expertise with reputable local builders who have past experience with our center and deep roots in Fort Worth,” said Mike Crum, director of public events for the City of Fort Worth.

The companies have received numerous regional and national awards for quality and safety in construction, as well as numerous other industry awards.

“Our company is proud to call North Texas home, and even more proud to contribute to Fort Worth’s thriving community and economic development,” said AECOM Hunt’s Monte Thurmond, executive vice president and south region manager. “This project brings excitement throughout the entire city, and we’re honored to work with the City and help bring it to life.”

Cori Smith, AECOM Hunt vice president, who brings an extensive portfolio of expertise in convention centers, said: “Convention centers are a force for regional economic growth and opportunity, fueling jobs, drawing visitors and building opportunity. Having proudly worked on numerous projects across the country, our team brings innovation and expertise – and we look forward to showcasing the best of what’s possible in Fort Worth.”

“This project will bring incredible visibility to our city, and as a local Fort Worth company, being on this team is a point of great pride,” said Ben Robertson, vice president at Byrne Construction Services. “We look forward to every step ahead in bringing new life to our convention center and paving the way for all the leading events to come.”

Eugene Walker, president and CEO of EJ Smith Construction, said: “Our team couldn’t be prouder to have the opportunity to support the City of Fort Worth and to be a part of building a part of its future. Working with our partners, we look forward to creating jobs, getting to work and delivering an incredible convention center for our region.”

Photo: Expansion of the Fort Worth Convention Center will take place in two phases, and the facility will remain operational during both.

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