The Washington State Convention Center Public Facilities District changed the name of the convention complex to Seattle Convention Center. CSC’s campus now consists of Arch at 705 Pike, the original building; Arch at 800 Pike, formerly known as the Conference Center; Summit, which will open one block north on Pine Street in January 2023; and three car parks.

“This is an important milestone as we prepare to launch Summit, the additional building,” said Jeff Blosser, president and CEO of the convention center. “The updated brand captures the enduring vibrancy the convention center brings to downtown Seattle, in terms of revenue generated from meetings, but also from event attendees as they explore Seattle, the Puget Sound and Washington State.”

The new addition will have 570,290 square feet of event space. Its strengths include:

• 149,200 square feet of heavy-lift exhibit space with drive-up access;
• The 99,250 square foot Flex Hall carpeted and acoustically treated;
• 62 meeting rooms totaling 99,620 square feet, with numerous combination possibilities;
• A 58,000 square foot column-less ballroom with a custom 55 foot ceiling made from locally sourced recycled wood;
• 137,220 square feet of event space full of natural light, with mountain and water views; and
• 18 covered bays on a loading dock.

In the heart of Seattle and close to its world-class hotels, restaurants, entertainment and attractions, the Seattle Convention Center has served the Northwest for nearly 33 years. The facility has a longstanding commitment to sustainability, public art and civic engagement.

Additionally, Visit Seattle, the Bureau of Conventions and Visitors, and Seattle Bank are partnering to help small business owners generate revenue for visitors to emerging neighborhoods around the city. Inaugural grant program invested in 20 local businesses, including restaurants, cafes and stores in Chinatown-International and Central District, focusing on those owned by women, people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“This program gives us the opportunity to share our story with a wider audience – to welcome more people to discover the true origins of coffee and the rich history of coffee in Africa,” said Efrem Fesaha, CEO and Founder of a grant recipient, Boon Boona Coffee, an African-inspired cafe that prioritizes education and community engagement.

“We are very grateful to be part of the Community Partnership Program,” said Diane Ung, co-owner of Phnom Penh Noodle House, a Cambodian restaurant in Chinatown-International. “It gives us the opportunity to introduce our cuisine to those who come from afar and to neighbors we have not yet met.”

Visit Seattle has a full list of grant recipients.