It's expected to give the city a big boost in the competitive business of hosting conventions.
"This grand entrance is the wow feature here," says Ahmeenah Young. "It's the wow feature!"
The expanded Convention Center represents 2 Million square feet of additional space, with four new exhibit halls.
"So we've got more exhibit hall space, continuous because they are all connected," said Young.
President and CEO, Ahmeenah Young says that will allow the city to host two major events in this building at the same time, like the Flower Show, which opens on Sunday, and the National Convention that will bring 14,000 nurses to Philadelphia in a few weeks.
The $786 Million dollar project features an escalator with a 50 foot rise, and the largest ballroom on the East Coast; the size of a football field.
Joseph Resta implemented the project's program of inclusion.
"For minorities and women, we have approximately 29% in contracting," explained Joseph Resta.
Just as important, Young says the Center will drive development.
"We're driving jobs. We're driving economic development. We're driving entrepreneurship," said Young.
The expansion is the largest public works project in Pennsylvania history.
"And what make us different," said Young, "we're walkable. This is a walkable experience."
Just beyond the doors, the Center offers first-rate restaurants, Museums and entertainment.
Young imagines the possibilities.
"Perhaps within these walls, the cure for cancer could happen, but at night you're able to celebrate the work that you've done during the day," said Young.
Among the challenges ahead, is a need to modify the city's current labor arrangement, but officials are optimistic about what the new Center will be able to do for Philadelphia.
