Ocean City Convention Center, Phase I & II

The Maryland Stadium Authority completed the renovation and expansion of the Ocean City Convention Center in the Fall of 1997. Exhibition space in the building was increased by 50,000 square feet and the meeting room space expanded by 25,000 square feet. The exhibition space in the original Convention Center was converted into a new ballroom. Maximum flexibility through use of partitions that permit the three main halls to be sub-divided into seven rooms. In December, 2007, the Town of Ocean City asked MSA to conduct a feasibility study for another expansion of their Convention Center.

The study evaluated the existing structure, the current convention market, options for capital improvements, and the scope for a performing arts center.

In August, 2010, the Ocean City Council approved plans for an $8.9 million expansion. This project broke ground in August, 2011. On November 7, 2011, the Ocean City Council approved plans for an additional $14 million auditorium that would include two tiers of fixed seating, dressing rooms, and a ticket office and concession area.

The 1,248-seat performing arts venue is a major upgrade over the convention hall's existing ballroom and stage. This Phase II proposal was approved by the Maryland General Assembly during their 2012 session. Phase II construction began in Fall 2013. The Performing Arts Center opened on time, on budget in December 2014.

Design innovations reflect the natural surroundings of the Atlantic Ocean and Assawoman Bay:

• Indoor/Outdoor Patio
• Seaside Theme throughout
• Visitor Center in Shape of Lighthouse
• Exterior Canopies Shaped like Sails
• Ceiling Design in Shape of Sails
• Compass Design Woven into Carpet and Terrazzo
• 80% of contracts awarded to Maryland firms