$1B Boston Convention Center Upgrade Gets Airing

State lawmakers are considering a proposed $1.1 billion expansion of the Boston Convention and Exhibition center in South Boston.

Supporters of the measure say the facility that opened in 1997 isn't big enough to attract many large-scale national and international conventions. They say expanding the convention center and adding hotel rooms would generate new jobs and other economic benefits for the region.

The House Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets has scheduled a hearing for Thursday to discuss financing for the project.

Current plans call for no new taxes or fees. Instead, proceeds from the state's current hotel occupancy tax would be used to support bonds issued for construction.

The Pioneer Institute has warned the convention center expansion could divert capital funds from other state projects.