The 1.2 million square-foot expansion of the Washington State Convention Center creates an important new public space beneath a dramatic, block-long canopy of glass that offers breathtaking views. The Convention Center has recently revealed its fleshed-out plan for its expansion project.
According to a report by Capitol Hill Seattle, a fleshed-out plan for the project was revealed on Tuesday night at the City Hall Room, 600 5th Avenue, Bertha Landes Conference Room.
As part of a multi-use complex, the plan includes designs for a "9th Avenue Mixing Zone," a "Pine Street Gallery," and a "Boren Beacon." It also includes the start of planning for "co-development" to create a 30-storey apartment tower and a 16-storey office building near the site.
The 1600 9th Avenue Design Review, Early Design Guidance application consists of a proposal for a five level exhibition and meeting room facility. Along with this are retail at grade, 800 parking spaces, and associated loading docks within the structure. This also includes MUP 3020177, 1711 Boren Avenue.
The convention center program proposes five stories above grade and two stories below grade. These would consist of 250,000 SF of Exhibition Space, 120,000 SF of Meeting Space, 70,000 SF of Ballroom Space, and 280,000 SF of Lobby and Circulation. An additional 510,000 SF of Support Spaces, 500-800 Parking Stalls, 200,000 SF of Loading Area, and Street-Level Retail and Restaurants, are also in place, Capitol Hill Seattle reports.
WSCC has reportedly gained $56.5 million worth of land that lies between 9th and Boren, and Howell and Olive Way. The expansion would be a massive project. The expanded convention facility now makes exhibition space, facilities, and new retail, as well as parking for around 800 vehicles.
From another report of Capitol Hill Seattle, a whopping $1.4 billion is said to be needed for the plan to take effect. The plan will be developed on land along the north side of Pine just across I-5 from Capitol Hill. The convention center is located just across I-5 from Pine.
Aside from its review last week, the convention center project was reportedly first proposed to the board in May. The plan is expected to return for its third submission in early October.
