What is the Convention Center Modernization and Connectivity Project?

    The City of Palm Springs is investing in a comprehensive renovation and expansion of the Palm Springs Convention Center, along with new shaded and inviting pedestrian connections between the Center, downtown, and nearby hotels. The goal is to keep the Convention Center competitive for national events while also creating a more welcoming experience for residents and visitors. This is one of the largest civic projects in recent city history, designed to generate economic growth, support tourism, and celebrate Palm Springs’ desert-modernist identity.

    How much will the project cost, and how is it funded?

    The estimated cost of the modernization and connectivity program is approximately $125 million. The City is planning a combination of funding sources to cover this investment, including Measure J (local sales tax, with $10 million already approved), Measure A (Riverside County transportation funds for connectivity improvements), revenues from the existing Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT), and a proposed Tourism Infrastructure District (TID). In addition, the City expects to issue bonds supported by these revenues to spread costs over time.

    What is the Tourism Infrastructure District (TID)?

    The TID would be a citywide assessment district where hotels contribute one percent of room revenue and restaurants contribute one-half percent of revenue. No retail businesses would be assessed. These funds—estimated at $5.9 million per year—would be dedicated to the Convention Center Modernization and Connectivity project. PS Resorts would serve as the Owners Association to oversee the TID.

    Why is this project happening now?

    The Convention Center was last expanded in 2005, and since then, event planner demand has outpaced the Center’s ballroom and meeting capacity. Studies show that Palm Springs can currently meet only 55–73 percent of planner demand, and many cite outdated aesthetics and technology as barriers. At the same time, competitor cities offer stronger pedestrian connectivity between convention facilities, hotels, and downtown districts. Without investment, Palm Springs risks losing business to other destinations.

    What will be built or improved as part of the modernization?

    The project includes reconfiguring Oasis Hall, redesigning the eastern and western entrances, and creating flexible indoor/outdoor gathering spaces that take advantage of Palm Springs’ climate and landscape. Food and beverage kiosks and digital public art installations are also planned. On the connectivity side, shaded walkways, improved lighting, themed wayfinding, and new public art will strengthen the link between the Convention Center and downtown. 

    When will construction take place, and how long will it last?

    The project is currently in the planning and design phase, which will run through September 2026. Procurement and contract awards are scheduled for late 2026. Construction will then proceed in phases: renovations first (November 2026 through April 2028), followed by expansion (April 2028 through March 2029). This phased approach allows the Center to continue hosting events while work is underway.

    How will the community benefit?

    In addition to an improved Convention Center, the project is expected to generate more than $113 million in annual economic output and $7.6 million in annual tax revenue once complete. It will also create more than 1,300 full-time equivalent jobs supporting $46.5 million in wages. Beyond economics, the community will enjoy shaded walkways, increased arts and cultural programming, and sustainable landscaping designed for the desert environment. Over the next 30 years, the project is projected to generate $3.4 billion in total economic output and $228 million in tax revenues for Palm Springs.

    Will nonprofits and community groups be able to use the renovated facility?

    Yes. Palm Springs is committed to keeping the Convention Center accessible to the community. Nonprofits will be able to request access to meeting space through an online application (coming soon).

    Will construction disrupt existing events?

    The City and its selected operator, Oak View Group, are planning construction in stages to minimize disruption. Renovations and expansions will be scheduled with careful attention to the Center’s event calendar. The goal is to keep the facility operational and to ensure major events can continue in Palm Springs during construction.

    How is the City ensuring transparency and accountability?

    Oversight is built into every stage of the project. Four working groups—Capital Improvements, Urban Design & Connectivity, Public Finance, and Tourism Infrastructure District—are advising the City, alongside the City Manager’s Stakeholder Group. All major decisions will return to the City Council for review and approval, and regular updates will be provided to the public through Council meetings, community workshops, and this website.

    How can residents and businesses get involved?

    Residents and business owners can attend community meetings, sign up for project updates, or provide input through the online comment portal. PS Resorts is also conducting targeted outreach to hotels and restaurants about the proposed Tourism Infrastructure District. Public engagement will be ongoing throughout the design and construction process.