The August heat came in full speed, but the outdoor and indoor work never stopped at the Hickory Metro Convention Center during this long summer month.
Work by the Convention Center Main Entrance
Concrete work by the Convention Center’s Main Entrance was completed. Once that was complete, electrical work occurred on the current and new lights by the main entrance.
Steel work for the front entrance started in August and will continue throughout September. The original awning at the main entrance will be extended an additional 15 feet. This adds a more attractive entrance and extends to provide guests with a larger area to escape the sun or rain.
What’s next in the outdoor space by the Convention Center's Main Entrance
Work will continue outside on the additional steel cover. Once that is complete, the glass panes within the structure will need to be sized and ordered. Due to the time it takes to produce them, the glass panes will most likely not be installed until later this year.
The aluminum-covered walkway that will connect the convention center's main entrance to the parking deck will begin in September. Once that is complete, parts of the driveway will be repaved.
Work in the Multi-Purpose Expo and Gym Space
Crews stripped the 35,000-square-foot floor and applied the gloss topcoat to the new wooden maple floor. This floor now has four basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, and twelve pickleball courts.
Currently, this space is curing, with very little activity taking place on the floor for at least 30 days. A new cover for the entire space also arrived, however it cannot go over the space for 45 days. The cover will go on the floor when used for an expo or other events that do not need the lines on the floor.
Catawba Renovated Space
The installation of new upscale lighting features in the renovated Catawba Meeting were installed in August. These added features will give clients the option to change lighting colors throughout the room to fit their event theme and create a striking ambiance.
Baker AV is to install the 32-foot by 9-foot video wall in the pre-function space the week of September 23. This space offers floor-to-ceiling windows and an elegant open concept. While there are still plans in the works for how this space will continue to take shape, it is exciting to envision this space being used for many different functions. More information will be shared on this space as plans develop.
Lots of activity at the Hickory Metro Convention Center and as we like to say, “Turning Dirt Is Progress.” Last but not least, an updated Parking Map for customers is below.
Meetings and events are still being held at the convention center during this time of progress. Please remember to "Bear With Us" as we are all a part of this expansion and renovation. A minor inconvenience right now will bring significant growth in the future. If you have any questions, please call 828-322-1335.
