Project Background

After years of planning, Anchorage broke ground for its 215,000 square foot expanded civic and convention center, the Dena`ina Civic & Convention Center on April 17, 2006.

The $103 million facility is designed to be the most significant convention facility in the far northern portion of the United States.

When it's completed in 2008, the 26,000 square foot ballroom will have the capacity for 140 booths, 2,000 banquet seats and 2,800 theatre style. The exhibit hall will accommodate 250 trade show booths, 3,500 banquet seating and 5,000 theatre space. The flexible space will expand as needed, providing 11,300 square feet of meeting rooms.

Designed by Rim Architects and LMN, the facility will showcase Anchorage's spectacular scenery while taking advantage of the low sun angle during the winter and the drawn out sunsets during the summer.

Architects have taken cues from Alaska's four seasons and worked them into the wall finishes and the color of the carpets. One level embraces fall landscapes and the changing colors of the high country, while another takes visitors into the summer landscape. Highly reflective materials and cooler hues will be used as visitors move into the winter landscape.

Other features include protected vestibule entrances and a roof designed to prevent snow shedding. Architects have also designed upgraded heated sidewalks lined with trees, canopies and lighting.

Other exciting changes unfolding in Anchorage include capital improvements planned for the William A. Egan Center during the next three years. Three million dollars in revenue bonds will pay for several upgrades including improvements to the Explorer Hall roof, renovations to the lower level restrooms and the replacement of the lower level audio system and the existing water lines.

Overall, Anchorage's Civic & Convention Center district will expand the city's ability to host meetings, shows and community gatherings while generating millions of dollars in new business. These dynamic changes will introduce a whole new level of possibilities to visitors as well as Anchorage residents.