Task Force believes construction of expanded Convention Centre will now begin in 2003

Peter Armstrong, chair of the Task Force noted that a builder/developer
should soon be identified for the expanded Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre.
"The government clearly understands the need to move forward as quickly
as possible to ensure opening of the centre in 2008," said Armstrong.
"Commencing construction this year is critical to ensuring the centre is built
within the proposed $495 million budget."
Tourism Vancouver board member Susan Gomez, general manager of the
Metropolitan Hotel explained the purchase allows the tourism industry to move
forward on marketing plans to ensure the centre is occupied when it opens in
five years.
"We applaud the land purchase as well as the federal and provincial
governments for their financial contribution. Tourism Vancouver will invest
$90 million (net present value) toward the construction of the centre, as well
as additional marketing dollars to generate incremental benefits for the
tourism industry and other sectors of the economy," said Gomez.
Tourism Vancouver's Vice President of Meeting & Convention Sales, Dave
Gazley added, "Now we need the final construction schedule, including opening date, as well as final floor plans to start aggressive sales and marketing of the new facility. We have customers who are ready to book major conventions once we put a shovel into the ground. This will help us to continue to build business for our community of members for years to come," said Gazley.

The Expansion Task Force has garnered the unprecedented support of over 90 organizations throughout British Columbia, including Tourism Prince George and the Truck Loggers Association, as part of its Stakeholders Council. The Task Force has provided leadership, direction and focus that has led to an industry-driven Business Plan for expansion of the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre (VCEC). The business plan has been prepared on the premise that funding will be provided by the federal government, provincial government, together with Tourism Vancouver's contribution of $90 million. The expansion of the Convention Centre will be on the Burrard Landing site and will be integrated with the existing VCEC.

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