Medellin’s ‘Plaza Mayor’ Convention Center Unveils US$9.4 Million Expansion Scheme, Including New Hotel
Medellin’s “Plaza Mayor” on November 14 unveiled a COP$32 billion (US$9.4 million) expansion plan that over the next 10 years would modernize a host of convention facilities and add a new hotel.
The “2019-2029 Events with a Future” scheme includes 10 proposals both within and outside the convention center, along with “modernization of spaces and extension of complementary services,” according to Plaza Mayor, which is owned by the City of Medellin.
A new tower would be built over the current parking lot at the Yellow Pavilion, incorporating a 200-room hotel, co-working spaces and office spaces.
The tower also would offer “small- and medium-sized salons and other services such as restaurants, spa, beauty salon and commerce,” according to the organization.
Plaza Mayor general manager Juliana Cardona Quirós pointed out that the additions and upgrades would capitalize on Medellin’s growing global event-marketing successes, with the city having hosted more than 371 international events in just the last four years.
As a result, Plaza Mayor would extend its offer of convention services to other areas of the city.
At Plaza Mayor, projects would include expansion and adaptation of annexed areas at the Yellow Pavilion, relocating the garbage-recycling zone and making the Blue Pavilion independent.
The scheme also includes developing “pleasant spaces for rest, work and meetings, to ensure comfort and connectivity for our visitors,” according to the organization.
A new electronic signaling system would help visitors orient themselves around the various spaces, while a new “Innovation Center” aims to boost business tourism.
A new food area would replace the existing area “providing more and better offers for customers and visitors,” according to Plaza Mayor.
The scheme also includes creation of a single event-ticket window (replacing multiple sites) for greater customer convenience, as well as storage lockers and improved connectivity.
