Javits_Convention_CenterV3_Joe_Buglewicz

NEW YORK CITY—Ground has been broken here on the expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Manhattan's West Side. Following work that began on the building's foundation in December 2016, this groundbreaking signifies the start of construction on the first phase of the $1.5 billion expansion project.

The expanded Javits Center is expected to generate $393 million in new annual economic activity, reduce area traffic congestion and increase the efficiency of operations to allow for new and expanded events. The project is also expected to create 3,100 construction jobs, and an additional 4,000 full-time and 2,000 part-time jobs once the expansion is completed in 2021.

“This is no longer a promise or a proposal – we have now broken ground on expanding one of this region's greatest economic assets, proving yet again that government can get things done,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo at the groundbreaking. “This is the new New York – meeting deadlines, fulfilling promises and supporting transformative projects that provide economic opportunity for businesses of all sizes and New Yorkers of all backgrounds. The Javits Center expansion is creating thousands of construction jobs and supporting the growth of New York's hotel, restaurant and tourism industries for decades to come.”

Project funding of $1 billion already has been appropriated and proceeds from bonds sold last year by Empire State Development will finance the balance.

The project includes an on-site truck marshaling facility that can hold a minimum of 229 trucks that haul exhibit materials to and from the Javits Center; 90,000 square feet of permanent exhibit space, to be combined with the existing exhibit space, to create an approximately 500,000-square-foot exhibition hall; 45,000 square feet of meeting room space; a 55,000-square-foot ballroom, the largest of its kind in the New York region; green roof terrace and pavilion accommodating 1,500 people for outdoor events and more.

The expansion is projected to create 4,000 full-time jobs, 2,000 part-time jobs and 3,100 construction jobs; generate $393 million in new economic activity a year and generate 200,000 additional hotel room nights a year.

“The Javits Center is the heart of New York's exposition industry,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Howard Zemsky, “and this expansion will ensure that heart is stronger than ever.”

Project funding of $1 billion already has been appropriated and proceeds from bonds sold last year by Empire State Development will finance the balance.

Instant Insights /

Javits Center Expansion Gets Underway

Related Stories

Recommended For You