The city of Dallas has selected the Trinity Alliance joint venture, led by AECOM Hunt and Turner Construction, to serve as construction manager at risk for the first phase of the $3.7 billion Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center expansion. The project was announced by the joint venture on Monday.

The Trinity Alliance JV will manage the full spectrum of preconstruction, construction, and demolition services for the initial phase of this transformative development, which will enlarge the existing convention center to over 2 million square feet. The contract value for construction management services has not been disclosed.

This expansion represents a significant increase in budget compared to the initial $1.9 billion estimate from 2021, reflecting the growing scope and ambition of the project. Besides expanding the facility, the development will feature new entertainment venues, dining options, and a multimodal transit hub, aiming to revitalize downtown Dallas.

The upgraded convention center will also serve a pivotal role as the International Broadcast Center for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, acting as a global media hub hosting thousands of television and radio journalists.

To support financing, the city is exploring a $1 billion bridge loan, though some Dallas city council members have voiced concerns regarding this funding approach during recent briefings. A council vote on the loan is expected shortly.

The Trinity Alliance has a proven track record on major convention center projects, including the $2 billion Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, the $500 million Fort Worth Convention Center, and segments of the $600 million Las Vegas Convention Center expansion. The Dallas project will mark their 40th convention center delivery.

Equity partners involved in the JV include BOWA Construction, CORE CMCI, EJ Smith Construction, GCC Enterprises, Pienado Construction, and Source Building. Additional partners encompass Acari Management Group, BYRNE Construction Services, Copeland Contracting Co, LeVis Consulting Group, Mahuya Industries, Othon, RM Chin & Associates, and STL Engineers.

This collaboration between Turner and AECOM Hunt leverages extensive experience in large-scale, complex construction projects. According to Turner Construction spokesperson, "Our team's combined expertise positions us well to deliver this landmark project that will boost Dallas's economy and community vitality."

AECOM Hunt added, "We are excited to contribute to a project that redefines downtown Dallas and prepares the city for global events like the World Cup."

The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center expansion is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and significant economic activity throughout the build phase and beyond.

Originally reported by Jennifer Goodman in Construction Dive.