Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What You Need to Know About the Redeveloped Duke Energy Convention Center
The transformation of the Duke Energy Convention Center is more than a renovation—it’s a bold reinvestment in Cincinnati’s future as a top-tier meetings and tourism destination. The full project includes a dramatic modernization of the Convention Center, but also reinvestment in the surrounding district to include new restaurants, entertainment venues and an upcoming Headquarters Hotel. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our community, partners, and visitors.
1. Is this just a facelift or a full transformation?
This is a full reinvention of the convention center experience—inside and out. While some original concepts were refined for cost efficiency and speed, the final plan prioritizes a dramatic, modern exterior and a full upgrade of core infrastructure, interiors, technology, and customer experience.
Upgrades include:
- A modernized exhibit hall with improved ceiling height and lighting
- Enlarged ballrooms and flexible meeting space
- New entryways, signage, and indoor flow
- Improved tech infrastructure for planners and presenters
- Contemporary finishes that reflect Cincinnati’s culture and energy
2. What’s happening to the iconic ‘CINCINNATI’ sign?
Yes, there will be an updated ‘CINCINNATI’ icon sign—it will be refreshed with modern LED technology, allowing dynamic lighting and animation that celebrates our events, seasons, and civic pride.
3. Will this actually bring bigger events and new business?
Yes. The enhanced center is expected to generate an additional $48 million in annual economic impact through increased group bookings, larger conventions, and higher visitor spending. It's a critical step to keeping Cincinnati competitive with peer cities. To truly grow convention sizes, the upcoming Headquarters Hotel is a key piece of the development.
4. What’s happening to the surrounding district?
The transformation includes a reimagined district—plans call for:
- ·A pedestrian-friendly Elm Street Plaza is adjacent to the Center and will allow programmable civic spaces
- Seamless integration with the upcoming new convention Headquarters Hotel and nearby attractions
- The new Paycor Headquarters is a block away from the Convention Center. This $30 million, mixed-use development with office, retail and restaurants including James Beard-nominated chef Jose Salazar's reopened restaurant, Salazar.
5. How is this being funded? Will taxes go up?
No new taxes are being levied on residents. The project is primarily funded through existing hotel tax revenues and a strategic refinancing plan between the City of Cincinnati and Hamilton County. Visitors to the region help fund the improvements that benefit our economy.
6. What’s the timeline for construction?
The Convention Center closed for construction in July 2024 and will reopen in January 2026. During this time, the Visit Cincy team is actively working with regional venues to accommodate event relocations and keep Cincinnati in the rotation.
7. How are neighborhoods and partners being included?
Input from tourism stakeholders, downtown businesses, elected officials, and neighboring communities is helping shape the project. The goal is a district that benefits all—from large conventions to small businesses and residents across the region. Visit Cincy’s Inclusive Hospitality program has supplier diversity initiatives to connect the region’s businesses with new opportunities that the development brings.
8. How is the project being managed?
This project is being managed by the trusted, locally rooted non-profit development team at 3CDC with a proven track record. It has support across city and county leadership, with transparency and public accountability built into funding and development decisions.
The Bottom Line
The reimagined Duke Energy Convention Center will make Cincinnati more competitive, more connected, and more compelling—for events, visitors, and residents alike.
Learn more here.
Questions? Contact us at info@VisitCincy.com
