San Jose Convention Center

CSL has been retained by the City of San Jose to consult on a number of convention and hospitality-related planning efforts over the years, most recently including a San Jose Convention Center (SJCC) Strategic Plan for future investment to maintain and enhance market capture in the convention industry.  Leveraging extensive market-based research, CSL defined specific exhibit, meeting and ballroom development scenarios for the SJCC, in addition to the optimal number of headquarter and ancillary hotel rooms to support this expanded space.  CSL also reviewed and analyzed options to reimagine the pedestrian experience throughout and just outside the SJCC, and developed preliminary plans to better link the building with the surrounding downtown area via placemaking, landscaping, public art and technology. 

In addition, CSL recently completed a feasibility study for potential headquarter hotel development and long-term SJCC space needs.  The purpose of this study was to evaluate market demand, financial and site features that will impact the near and long-term viability of the convention and hospitality industry in S an Jose.  In particular, CSL developed findings that allow the City of San Jose, Team San Jose and community stakeholders to make decisions as to potential headquarter hotel development on available parcels adjacent to or near the SJCC. 

CSL also conducted an extensive study for the City of San Jose pertaining to the evaluation of financial, marketing and operational performance data for the SJCC and other important City-owned cultural venues. The scope of work included an assessment of the long-term viability of the Convention Center and Cultural Affairs Fund and analysis of alternate governance structures relating to City event facilities and destination marketing organizations. 

Also, a detailed benchmarking effort was conducted that involved research as to financial operations, organizational structure, policy and governance issues, performance metrics, coordination/communication, and other key aspects of event facility and hospitality industry organizations in other major destinations.  The study defined industry best practices and provided strategic recommendations to best align, fund and operate San Jose’s event facility assets and hospitality industry organizations.