Dallas City Council members gathered on June 25, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center and its associated projects. A key highlight was the approval of a construction manager at risk agreement for the renovation of the Black Academy of Arts and Letters, part of a broader master plan aimed at revitalizing the convention center district.

The council approved a contract with a joint venture comprising HJ Russell, Phillips May, and Structure Tone Southwest, which will provide pre-construction and construction management services. The total project budget is set at $200 million, with pre-construction services costing up to $695,363. This initiative is expected to enhance the cultural landscape of Dallas, particularly through the T Ball project, which aims to modernize facilities that have not seen significant upgrades since the 1950s.

Council members expressed the importance of this project for the city’s economic growth, emphasizing the need for a robust pipeline of conventions and events to attract visitors and generate revenue. The council highlighted that 64 conventions have already been booked at the new convention center, with an additional 100 opportunities in the pipeline, underscoring the urgency of moving forward with renovations.

However, some council members raised concerns about the lack of a defined budget for the overall project, questioning the process of approving a construction manager without a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) established. They stressed the importance of setting a budget ceiling before proceeding, to avoid potential financial pitfalls as the project develops.

Despite these concerns, the council ultimately voted in favor of the contract, with the understanding that further details, including the GMP, will be brought back for council approval in the coming months. This decision marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to revitalize Dallas's convention facilities and enhance the city’s cultural offerings.