Bloomington, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Bloomington Convention Center expansion is advancing as demolition and foundation work are underway. Key updates include the imminent first concrete pour and a recently approved funding resolution. The project aims to increase capacity with modern meeting space and a new hotel, enhancing local economic impact. The groundbreaking ceremony is set for June, with completion anticipated in the coming years.
Bloomington Convention Center Expansion Progressing Towards Milestone Concrete Pour
The construction of the Bloomington Convention Center expansion is making significant strides as it approaches a crucial phase. The demolition of the old NAPA Auto Parts building, located at the corner of 3rd and Walnut Streets, took place in the third week of July, clearing the way for this important project.
The construction work is currently happening on the block south of 3rd Street, situated between College Avenue and Walnut. Foundation excavations for the expansion are currently in progress, with the first concrete pour set to take place this Friday. This event marks a significant milestone in the construction timeline.
During a recent update to the Monroe County’s Capital Improvement Board (CIB) on September 17, 2025, Andrew Scere, the project manager with Weddle Brothers, outlined the ongoing construction efforts. The CIB is focused on overseeing the project and its budgetary considerations.
On the same day, the CIB treasurer pointed out that the city council would be discussing a resolution later that evening. This resolution requests the Food and Beverage Tax Advisory Commission (FABTAC) to review funding for the CIB’s 2026 budget. Although FABTAC is required by state law to conduct this review, it does not hold the authority to either approve or deny the proposed funding.
The expansion of the convention center is being financed through the city’s share of a 1% countywide food and beverage tax revenue. However, it is important to note that the project’s funding is not included in the CIB’s budget for 2026, which is set at $8,958,017. This budget primarily covers “other” services such as testing, environmental services, utility connections, and construction testing.
In a recent vote, the city council approved the funding resolution with an 8-1 outcome, with Kate Rosenbarger casting the only dissenting vote. Rosenbarger raised concerns about public support for the convention center expansion, emphasizing the need to consider the community’s perspective.
The construction bids awarded for the project total $50.9 million, leaving $1.1 million available for optional bid alternates. Six bid alternates were evaluated for the existing convention center. Recommendations centered around additional kitchen equipment and improvements to audio-visual technology which have been deemed critical for enhancing functionality.
Eddie Layton, representing project architect Schmidt Associates, indicated that the existing kitchen would primarily function as a warming kitchen while undergoing upgrades to comply with current health codes. Additionally, the CIB will review the remaining four alternates in the following weeks.
The newly expanded Bloomington Convention Center is designed to feature over 70,000 square feet of modern meeting and event space, contributing to a total of more than 100,000 square feet overall. The current Monroe Convention Center, which opened in 1991, hosts more than 500 events annually.
This expansion aims to accommodate larger groups, boosting capacity to facilitate events for up to 600 attendees. Furthermore, there are plans for a 225-room host hotel that will accompany the development of the convention center.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bloomington Convention Center is scheduled for June 3, with the project projected for completion in 2027. This expansion is expected to significantly enhance the potential economic impact on local businesses, making it a highly anticipated addition to the area.
FAQ
What is the current status of the Bloomington Convention Center expansion?
The construction work for the Bloomington Convention Center expansion is currently in progress, with the first concrete pour scheduled for Friday.
How will the Bloomington Convention Center expansion be financed?
The convention center expansion is financed through the city’s share of a 1% countywide food and beverage tax revenue; however, it is not included in the CIB’s 2026 budget.
What is the expected completion date for the convention center expansion?
The expansion is projected for completion in 2027.
Key Features of the Bloomington Convention Center Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Demolition Completion | Completed in the third week of July |
| Construction Area | Block south of 3rd Street between College Avenue and Walnut |
| First Concrete Pour | Scheduled for Friday |
| Total Construction Cost | $50.9 million |
| Meeting Space | Over 70,000 square feet |
| Total Footage | Over 100,000 square feet |
| Capacity | Up to 600 attendees |
| Hotel Plans | 225-room host hotel |
| Projected Completion | 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- B Square Bulletin: Bloomington Convention Center Update
- IDS News: Bloomington Convention Center Name Change
- Herald Times: Groundbreaking for Convention Center Expansion
- Google Search: Bloomington Convention Center expansion
- Wikipedia: Convention center
Author: Construction CA News
CALIFORNIA STAFF WRITER The CALIFORNIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructioncanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in California and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rose Parade, Coachella, Comic-Con, and the California State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the California Building Industry Association and Associated General Contractors of California, plus leading businesses in technology and entertainment that power the local economy such as Apple and Alphabet. As part of the broader network, including constructionnynews.com, constructiontxnews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape across multiple states.
