Ocean
Center expansion ahead of schedule, on budget
Construction of the Ocean Center expansion project is ahead of
schedule and on budget with a completion date at the end of the
year.
The $76-million Ocean Center expansion project is ahead of schedule
and on budget. Completion is targeted for the end of the year.
Upon completion of the expansion, the existing facility will undergo
renovation to bring it up to the standards of the new space. Grand
opening of the facility tentatively is scheduled for the first
quarter of 2009. The expanded complex already has been booked for
dates in January 2009 including the Florida Fire Chiefs Association
and the State Cheer and Dance Championships that generate $2.4
million in area spending.
Ocean Center Director Rick Hamilton and Director of Sales Lori
Hunter recently attended the Florida Fire Chiefs Association meeting
in Jacksonville and the Ocean Center’s expanded space was totally
sold out upon their departure. “I was extremely exited to see the
new venue sell at such a rapid pace to exhibitors of the
association,” said Hamilton. “It definitively proved to us Volusia
County is a very viable market.”
The expansion is almost totally under roof with complete dry-in
scheduled in February. Interior walls and ceilings are being
installed and the facility is beginning to take shape with a defined
look. The current facility is 225,000 square feet. When the
expansion is complete, the complex will have an additional 227,491
square feet, creating the opportunity to host larger and more
frequent meetings, conventions and events. Walls, floors, ceilings,
bathrooms and other areas in the existing facility will be renovated
to match the interior of the expansion project.
