MA Gov. Baker Announces Plans to Expand Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

MA Gov. Baker Announces Plans to Expand Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced plans to pursue an expansion of the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) in South Boston.

The plan calls for the sale of the Hynes Convention Center in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood.

“Boston is a popular convention destination, and there has been market demand for larger, more flexible event space in recent years. This expansion will meet demand, unlock greater economic potential, and support the creation of new jobs. Our plan will make Boston’s convention space more efficient and maximize new economic opportunities in both the Seaport and the Back Bay, benefiting the City of Boston and the Commonwealth,” said Baker.

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Baker plans to file legislation authorizing the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) to sell the Hynes property, with the proceeds of the sale set aside for the BCEC expansion project.

The legislation will further authorize the MCCA to undertake the BCEC expansion, which is consistent with its master plan.

Baker’s Plan

The plan will consolidate Boston’s large and small event business in a single, larger, more flexible space with an efficient and fiscally responsible approach.

The legislation authorizes 200,000 square feet of additional space, which is expected to include a 100,000-square-foot exhibit hall; a 60,500-square-foot ballroom; and 44,000 square feet in additional meeting rooms.

The legislation includes a provision that would transfer an approximately 12-acre parcel of land located behind the current BCEC facility, not necessary for the expansion project, to the City of Boston.

Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

The BCEC opened in 2004 and outperforms national occupancy figures for major market facilities.

The expanded BCEC, with greater variety of available spaces, will be positioned to capture greater market share for large multi-day conventions and shows and accommodate bookings that might otherwise have gone to the Hynes.

Hynes Center

The Hynes opened in 1963, and was rebuilt in 1988. The facility is in need of major capital investments — estimated at nearly $200 million over the next 10 years just to maintain its current state.