THE LUCAS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND EXECUTIVES FROM PROMEDICA are rebranding Sea-Gate Centre in downtown Toledo to Glass City Center to focus attention and marketing efforts on the building’s $60 million expansion and renovation. The new website address will be GlassCityCenter.com.
“We are proud to play an important role in the major upgrade of this facility and reinforce the resurgence of business, entertainment, and overall vitality in downtown,” said Randy Oostra, ProMedica president and CEO. “Toledo’s current momentum is impressive and will continue to generate opportunities that help to ensure a stronger economic future across our region.”
Major funding for the project was arranged by the county commissioners.
“The need for major improvements and expansion of this 35-year-old facility has existed for some time. This ambitious project will make Toledo a top choice of planners for conventions, exhibitions, events, and more,” said Commissioner Gary Byers, board president.
“With other important and attractive developments such as the new Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites, we have created a more vibrant, exciting, attractive downtown area. This investment promises to bring more than $800 million in economic activity in our community over the next 20 years and double our visitor attendance to 200,000 people annually,” he added.
“Because the lead time for booking major events, exhibits, and meetings is often 12 to 36 months or more, it was important to introduce the new name as soon as possible to help us tell the story of this major project and build awareness of our new brand,” explained Steve Miller, general manager of Glass City Center and Huntington Center.
“The Glass City Center logo features a bold, abstract icon suggesting both strength and movement and reflecting the dynamic growth of Toledo’s downtown.”
The core of the expansion is an all-new 16,000-square-foot ballroom, which is expected to be completed in August. Additional upgrades throughout the 400,000-square-foot facility will continue through 2022 and will include lighting, decor, and the introduction of significant artwork and Toledo-centered displays.
Toledo has long been recognized as “the glass capital of the world,” and ProMedica selected Glass City after it obtained the naming rights for its support of the project.
