BLOOMINGTON, Ind. A market study shows strong support for a significant expansion of the Bloomington/Monroe County Convention Center, but what it could cost and whether the community can afford it are questions yet to be answered.
Thomas Hazinski, of HVS, a consulting firm doing an update of a convention center expansion feasibility study, said a market analysis showed Bloomington is well-positioned to increase the number of events it hosts each year, especially conventions and trade shows that represent the biggest potential customers. However, to do so will require correcting a number of existing deficiencies, including the lack of a large-scale exhibition hall and a connected full-service hotel.
Among market factors Bloomington has in its favor are its central location, proximity to Indianapolis and a stabilizing factor in the presence of Indiana University, according to Hazinski. Working against it, he said, are a lack of businesses to generate group and individual business travel and its distance from the Indianapolis airport.
The consultant said a survey of event planners showed that Bloomington was the second-most-desirable location in the state, behind only Indianapolis, in which to hold an event, but the survey also indicated that a lack of hotel rooms and suitable convention facilities were major drags on event business.
