The two-story grand entryway and junior ballroom are signature elements of the new renovation
Atlanta, Georgia – The Cobb Galleria Centre is one of Georgia’s leading and largest convention centers. Now the center has officially received final approval for a $190 million renovation and expansion project. Approved by the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority and by other local government entities, the renovation and expansion project is set to break ground in fall 2025 and aim for completion in early 2027.
Charlie Beirne, Cobb Galleria manager and CEO, shared the progress that has been made in recent years, “Over the past two years, we have conducted multiple supporting studies alongside design, master planning, pre-construction analysis, and financial reviews. Beirne goes on to say, “With this groundwork laid, we are poised to hit the ground running.”
The project will transform the 320,000-square-foot facility in northwest Atlanta into more of a competitive edge facility among regional and national convention centers. Plans include demolishing the Cobb Galleria specialty shops and the second floor meeting rooms, and constructing a dramatic two-story grand entryway. A new junior ballroom will be added to complement the existing John A. Williams Ballroom, alongside two unique outdoor event courtyards and gardens. Interior renovations will bring more natural lighting and state-of-the-art graphics and technology to meeting spaces, while a new connected parking lot will provide covered parking, all-weather access for guests.
An additional 13,000 sq ft of modern meeting space will be available for larger and more flexible events. The project will also upgrade the convention center’s main concourse, rotunda, and ballroom, offering an enhanced visitor experience throughout the facility.
County officials has selected a team of Cobb County-based firms to oversee the construction and design, including Rule Joy Trammell & Rubio as the lead architect, Holder Construction as the construction manager, and Impact Development Management as owner’s representative and project manager. Their combined expertise will ensure the expansion maintain Cobb Galleria’s high standards and reputation for excellence.
Funding for the project comes from local hotel-motel tax revenues, reflecting the region’s ongoing investment in tourism and hospitality infrastructure. According to officials, the Cobb Galleria Centre hosted more than 221,000 visitors and 213 events in 2023, generating an economic impact of $145 million for the area.