Building for the Future of Key Columbus Facilities

The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA) is taking significant steps to ensure the Greater Columbus Convention Center and Nationwide Arena remain premier destinations for visitors of conferences, conventions, sporting events and live entertainment. Through reinvestment, debt restructuring and an ongoing facilities assessment, the FCCFA is utilizing available resources to strengthen and build on the future of its assets.

Reinvestment in Key Assets

The FCCFA kicked off its annual capital improvement program to address infrastructure needs at the Convention Center and Nationwide Arena. These upgrades, totaling nearly $164 million over the next five years, include HVAC system replacements, roof repairs and updates to guest amenities. At the Convention Center, critical investments have already been made in air handler and chiller replacements to enhance its operational efficiency. The air handler upgrades, designed to improve indoor air quality within the Battelle Grand Ballroom, were made possible, in part, through American Rescue Plan Act grants from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the City of Columbus.

Also at the Convention Center, a building automation system upgrade, which is estimated to reduce the Convention Center’s annual energy consumption by up to 9% will be completed in 2025.

“These are not flashy upgrades, but they are vital,” says FCCFA Executive Director Ken Paul.

“They ensure our facilities operate effectively while continuing to provide an exceptional experience for our guests. When we reinvest now, we position ourselves for success well into the future.”

Nationwide Arena, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is also undergoing significant updates. From infrastructure improvements to enhancing the fan experience, these changes aim to extend the Arena’s useful life by another quarter century. Recent funding secured through the state’s capital budget has provided a boost for these projects, while additional investments are currently being pursued.

Strategic Debt Restructuring

To fund the Convention Center improvements, and optimize its financial position, the FCCFA recently executed a comprehensive debt restructuring program. By refinancing Convention Center bonds and shifting payment of such bonds to future years within the portfolio, the FCCFA freed up approximately $35 million for capital projects without incurring additional debt.

“This restructuring has strengthened our financial position,” Paul said. “It not only allows us to address immediate needs but also provides stability and flexibility for the future. We’ve optimized our debt program to facilitate near-term investment into the center while ensuring that the FCCFA remains financially secure and well prepared for the future.”

Comprehensive Needs Assessment

To guide reinvestment decisions, the FCCFA is completing a facility condition assessment, slated for completion by the end of Q1 2025. This study takes a deep dive into the physical infrastructure and operations of the Convention Center, examining everything from engineering systems to food service operations and parking management.

“We’re not just looking at what’s behind the walls,” says Paul. “We’re evaluating how the building functions in today’s evolving convention landscape. Consumer expectations are changing, and we must adapt to remain competitive.”

This is the first comprehensive condition assessment since the 2017 renovation and expansion of the Convention Center. The assessment will be used to ensure facilities keep pace with market demands and will serve as a springboard to a master planning exercise scheduled for the second half of 2025.

“Facilities like the Convention Center and Nationwide Arena aren’t one-and-done projects,” Paul said. “Just like a home needs ongoing upkeep, these public assets require consistent reinvestment to remain competitive and meet the needs of our community and visitors.”

As Columbus continues to grow as a destination for conferences, conventions and major events, the FCCFA’s reinvestment strategy ensures these popular facilities remain vibrant for decades to come.