FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida — Florida’s Broward County has reached major milestones in its $1.1 billion initiative to expand and modernize the Broward County Convention Center. Officials recently celebrated the grand opening of the Convention Center East Expansion and the new Convention Center Connector, aka Bypass Road, and the 29-story, 801-room Omni Fort Lauderdale officially opened its doors Dec. 18, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting welcoming its first guests.
Together, these projects represent a major step forward in the county’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, supporting tourism and enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
The East Expansion adds more than 1.2 million square feet to the existing facility, creating one of the most modern and versatile convention spaces in the Southeast. The project includes 525,000 square feet of meeting space, a 350,000-square-foot exhibit hall and a 65,000-square-foot ballroom overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
Built to LEED Gold Certified standards, the expansion features energy-efficient systems, cutting-edge technology and new dining concepts designed to highlight South Florida’s unique character and culture.
The newly opened Convention Center Connector (Bypass Road) is an elevated bypass through Port Everglades that provides direct connectivity from U.S. 1, State Road 84 and SE 17th Street to the Convention Center and the just-opened Omni Fort Lauderdale, eliminating the need to pass through Port security checkpoints.
The new roadway makes it easier for customers to reach shops and restaurants while improving logistics for local deliveries. For visitors, it provides a seamless route to the Convention Center and Omni Fort Lauderdale, making travel more convenient.
The Omni Fort Lauderdale marks the brand’s flagship arrival to Greater Fort Lauderdale, introducing a new benchmark for sophisticated coastal luxury and elevated hospitality in South Florida. Marking a key achievement in the Broward County Convention Center District expansion, the hotel now serves as its definitive anchor, setting a new regional standard as a world-class destination for meetings, events and leisure.
“Our Convention Center East Expansion is now South Florida’s premier waterfront conference center, providing luxury and comfort while remaining environmentally responsible,” said Broward County Administrator Monica Cepero.
When complete, the enhanced Convention Center district will include new waterfront amenities and public spaces that connect the community to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Combined, these projects are expected to generate more than $450 million in annual economic impact and create more than 3,000 full- and part-time jobs in Broward County.
For more information, visit ftlauderdalecc.com.
