Dallas Convention Center Project Begins with Lamar Street Demolition

Dallas, TX – The City of Dallas has taken a significant step toward the future with the official approval of demolition along Lamar Street, setting the stage for the construction of a state-of-the-art convention center. The project, which carries a $259 million price tag for construction services, will also house the International Broadcast Center (IBC) for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

The long-anticipated plan for transforming the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center has been in development since 2021. With this latest green light from the City Council, demolition on either side of Lamar Street is expected to begin soon. This major move is part of a larger vision to reimagine downtown Dallas and position it as a global destination.

Outgoing Councilmember Omar Narvaez, who has been part of the council since the early discussions of the project, expressed excitement over the progress. “It was probably four years ago, five years ago that the talk became real,” he said. “Now, the world will be watching Dallas.”

The western side of Lamar will become the base for FIFA’s International Broadcast Center, scheduled to be operational by January 2026. Narvaez noted that media professionals from around the globe will occupy the space during the tournament, bringing 24/7 activity to the area.

Jennifer Walker, Chief Marketing Officer of Visit Dallas, emphasized the economic potential of the project. So far, 64 conventions are already confirmed for the new convention center, with an estimated economic impact of $1.6 billion. Another 109 conventions are under consideration. Walker described the project as a “game-changer” for Dallas, saying the IBC’s presence offers a unique opportunity to tell the city’s story on a global stage.

As Dallas prepares to welcome international attention, the transformation of Lamar Street marks the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s growth. With the FIFA World Cup on the horizon and billions in potential economic activity, the Lamar Street demolition is more than a construction project—it’s a foundation for global recognition.