BREAKING: Gary Wins Bid for New Lake County Convention Center
Gary, Indiana – In a major victory for Northwest Indiana, the City of Gary has officially been awarded the Lake County Convention Center, a transformative project expected to drive economic revitalization, job creation, and tourism across the region.
The decision, announced today by the Lake County Board of Commissioners, follows months of intense competition and public engagement. Gary’s winning proposal, developed in partnership with Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, stood out for its visionary design, central location, and strong community support.
“This is more than just a building—it’s a catalyst for economic growth and pride in our city,” said Gary Mayor Eddie Melton. “We are deeply honored by this opportunity and ready to deliver a world-class facility for Lake County and beyond.”
The new convention center will be located adjacent to the Hard Rock Casino, along the bustling I-80/94 corridor. Renderings show a modern, flexible event space designed to accommodate major conferences, trade shows, and entertainment events. The project will bring hundreds of construction jobs and permanent hospitality positions to the city.
The selection process included extensive public input. A March 6 community presentation showcased strong local enthusiasm for Gary’s bid. In recent months, major organizations—including national conference planners—expressed interest in hosting events at the proposed site.
The win is also a moment of vindication after previous concerns that Gary might be sidelined in regional development efforts. In a past statement, Mayor Melton warned that excluding Gary would hinder Lake County’s overall growth. Today’s decision signals a shift toward inclusion and investment.
Construction timelines and groundbreaking details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Gary’s win is more than regional news, it’s a turning point!
