JAVITS CENTER’S ROOFTOP FARM RENAMED ‘STEEL FARM’ IN HONOR OF ALAN STEEL

New York (February 27, 2025) - The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is excited to announce the rooftop farm is now officially known as ‘Steel Farm’ in honor of chief executive officer Alan Steel, who will be retiring next month. Steel has been chief executive officer for the last 13 years – guiding Javits Center through the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, the unknown of the Covid-19 pandemic and the excitement of the North Javits expansion. [Read More]

New York Convention Center Operating Corporation to Appoint Joyce Leveston as New Chief Executive Officer of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

New York (January 23, 2025) - The New York Convention Center Operating Cooperation (NYCCOC) announced today that Joyce Leveston (CMM, CVP) will be appointed as the new chief executive officer of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The announcement follows a vote in support by the NYCCOC Board of Directors of the executive search committee’s unanimous recommendation. [Read More]

GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES FOUR GIGAWATTS OF DISTRIBUTED SOLAR INSTALLED IN NEW YORK AND LARGEST SINGLE-ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAY IN MANHATTAN

New York (September 22, 2022) - As part of Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced four gigawatts of distributed solar—community, residential, small commercial and industrial projects— have been installed across the state, enough to power more than 710,000 homes, underscoring New York's leadership in growing one of the strongest solar markets in the nation. Since the launch of the NY-Sun initiative, the cost of solar in New York has declined by 70 percent as solar deployment has grown nearly 2,900 percent statewide, all while helping to drive $6.4 billion in private investment and foster more than 12,000 jobs across the state. When combined with the projects that are under development and moving toward commercial operation, achieving today's milestone puts New York on track to exceed its goal to install six gigawatts of distributed solar by 2025 and progress toward 10 gigawatts by 2030. Governor Hochul was joined by U.S. Climate Alliance leaders to make the historic announcement today from the roof of the Javits Center, where they applauded progress in the installation of the largest single-rooftop solar array in Manhattan. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES CREATION OF JACOB'S HARVEST, THE FIRST BOTTLED PRODUCE FROM ITS NEW ROOFTOP FARM

New York (July 25, 2022) - The Javits Center today announced the creation of Jacob's Harvest, a new line of pickled produce from the convention center's new one-acre rooftop farm. The bottled produce is harvested directly from the rooftop farm -which was completed last year as part of a 1.2 million square-foot expansion-and will be distributed to customers and visitors to raise awareness about the venue's roof-to-table culinary program. Managed by urban farming company Brooklyn Grange, the rooftop farm is in its first full season and is expected to generate up to 40,000 pounds of annual produce. From arugula to zucchini, the various crops being grown are incorporated into the customized meals served during events on site. The first 250 jars of Jacob's Harvest are comprised of pickled radishes, but later this year, visitors will be able to sample pickled cucumbers, banana peppers and red cabbage-all grown on the rooftop more than eight stories above street level. [Read More]

Governor Hochul Announces New Rooftop Farm Atop the Javits Center Joins NYS Grown & Certified Program to Celebrate Earth Week

New York (April 19, 2022) - In celebration of Earth Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the new one-acre rooftop farm at the Javits Center has joined the New York State Grown & Certified program, a statewide effort that identifies local producers who adhere to higher standards in terms of food safety and environmental stewardship. Located more than eight stories above street level, the working farm was completed last year as part of a 1.2 million square-foot, state-of-the-art expansion of the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side. Each year, the farm is expected to generate up to 40,000 pounds of produce, which is being incorporated into the millions of meals served to guests during events at the convention center. On Monday, farmers from Brooklyn Grange, which manages the rooftop farm, harvested this year’s first produce, including carrots, leeks, and baby kale, that will be used during the New York International Auto Show that’s open until Sunday, April 24. [Read More]

TWO NEW BIRD SPECIES IDENTIFIED ON THE JAVITS CENTER'S GREEN ROOF, THE LARGEST GREEN ROOF IN NEW YORK STATE

New York (June 14, 2022) - Two new bird species have been identified on the nearly 7- acre green roof of the Javits Center, a unique wildlife sanctuary on Manhattan's West Side. With the observation of the two new bird species this spring, Killdeer and Ovenbird, a total of 37 bird species have been identified on the green roof since 2014, as well as five bat species and thousands of arthropods (insects). Led by the New York Convention Center Development Corporation (NYCCDC), the construction of the 6.75-acre green roof -the largest of its kind in New York State -was part of a major five-year renovation of the convention center that included the installation of more than 6,000 bird-safe glass panels and more than 100 energy­efficient HVAC units. As a result of the sustainable upgrades, bird collisions dropped more than 90 percent, and the rooftop transformed into a habitat for area wildlife. [Read More]

PIONEERING ROOFTOP FARM AND EVENT SPACE COMPLETED AS PART OF HISTORIC JAVITS CENTER EXPANSION

New York (September 14, 2021) - The New York Convention Center Operating Corporation today announced the completion of the Javits Center's new rooftop event space as part of its $1.5 billion expansion project on Manhattan's West Side. The 200,000 square-foot rooftop includes a glass-enclosed pavilion, an outdoor terrace and a one-acre working farm, which is expected to generate up to 40,000 pounds of produce each year. The farm, along with several other sustainable upgrades, builds on the success of the convention center's robust sustainability program, which includes an existing 6.75-acre green roof that serves as a habitat for area wildlife. The expansion project, which has added 1.2 million square feet of total event­related space, will draw new events to New York City and generate new economic activity among the hotel, restaurant, transportation and tourism industries. The SALT Conference, which opened yesterday, is the first event to utilize the expansion and its rooftop. [Read More]

FRESH AND FAST, A NEW STATE- OF -THE- ART TOUCHLESS CAFE, OPENS AT THEJAVITS CENTER-THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE UNITED STATES

New York (August 06, 2021) - The Javits Center today announced Fresh and Fast, the first touchless cafe in any convention center in the United States, will open this weekend. Fresh and Fast is a state-of-the-art retail location that offers user-controlled, checkout-free access to pre-packaged items, as well as a variety of snacks, beverages and in-house bakery items, that customers can purchase in a safe and efficient environment. Equipped with Amazon's Just Walk Out technology, the new cafe will allow guests to swipe their credit card to enter the store, after which they can take the items they want and leave without having to check out. Fresh and Fast is the latest addition to the iconic convention center on Manhattan's West Side, which recently completed an expansion project with the addition of 1.2 million square feet, including a rooftop pavilion and a 54,000 square-foot special event space. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces Completed Construction of the Javits Center Expansion

New York (May 11, 2021) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the construction completion of the historic $1.5 billion Jacob K. Javits Convention Center expansion, proving the effectiveness and efficiency of the design-building process in New York State. The massive project, which will add 1.2 million square feet of total event-related space on Manhattan's West Side, was completed on budget despite the challenges related to COVID-19. Expanding the Javits Center, which has operated as the busiest convention center in the United States, furthers Governor Cuomo's efforts to continue New York City's role as a leading tourism, hospitality and business destination, and the project serves as a key part of the Midtown West redevelopment plan, including the transformation of Pier 76 directly behind the six-block convention center. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces 500,000 Shots Have Been Administered at Javits Center Mass Vaccination Site

New York (April 27, 2021) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that 500,000 shots have been administered at the mass vaccination site at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City - one of the largest numbers of vaccinations performed at any site in the country. The mass vaccination site at the Javits Center has been instrumental in New York State's vaccination efforts. The site first opened on January 13, 2021 and was part of a pilot program that took place in March to administer the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine to eligible New Yorkers during overnight hours, switching to a 24/7 operation to accommodate these additional appointments. Over 13,000 shots were administered at the Javits Center site over a 24-hour period on two days in March - the best single-day performance of a vaccination site in the nation. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces State Vaccination Sites Now Open

New York (January 13, 2021) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the first three state-run vaccination sites are now open and vaccinating eligible New Yorkers against the COVID-19 virus. The sites - the Jacob K. Javits Center, Westchester County Center and New York State Fair Expo Center - all opened on January 13 at 8 a.m. Vaccinations are by appointment only. To determine eligibility and schedule an appointment to receive their first dose, New Yorkers can utilize the state's 'Am I Eligible' app or call the New York State Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829). Appointments to receive the second dose at these sites are scheduled in-person after receiving the first dose. New Yorkers should not attempt to book their second appointment online. [Read More]

The Javits Center Hosts its First Live Hybrid Event Since the COVID-19 Outbreak

New York (October 28, 2020) - The Javits Center has hosted the first live hybrid event in New York City since the COVID-19 outbreak, featuring a combination of in-person and virtual participants from around the world. Located inside the Javits Center’s new state-of-the-art broadcast studio, the event – Grant’s Fall 2020 Conference – included in-person and virtual speakers and participants, a full catering program and strict safety protocols designed in accordance with all state regulations. With a maximum of 50 attendees hosted in a socially distanced setting on site, the financial conference was the first in-person event at the convention center since the venue was transformed into a temporary COVID-19 hospital in order to reduce the burden on local hospitals during this unprecedented crisis. The daylong conference took place on Tuesday, October 20 from 8 AM to 6 PM. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER WELCOMES THE NEST SUMMIT AS A PART OF CLIMATE WEEK NYC

New York (September 21, 2020) - The Javits Center today welcomes the Nest Summit, the first virtual event to participate in the convention center’s new state-of-the-art broadcast studio – and the first event hosted since the iconic venue was transformed into a temporary COVID-19 hospital designed to reduce the burden on local hospitals. The Nest Summit is an official program of Climate Week NYC – the largest international climate summit taking place in 2020 – and will present virtual programming from September 21 to September 24. [Read More]

Armory Show to Trade Piers for the Javits Center

New York (March 05, 2020) - After 19 years at the Piers, the Armory Show will move to the Javits Center in 2021. The high-profile art fair, which opened its 2020 edition earlier this week, has also been rescheduled for the fall, with the start of the galleries’ art season. The next show will take place Sept. 9 through Sept. 12, 2021. [Read More]

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES $1.5 BILLION JAVITS CENTER EXPANSION TO BE SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLETE BY MARCH 2021

New York (December 07, 2019) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the historic $1.5 billion expansion of the Javits Center will be substantially complete by March 2021. The massive project, which will add 1.2 million square feet of total event-related space on Manhattan's West Side, is moving toward an on-time, on-budget completion with the expansion's steel and concrete superstructure finished and installation of the final phase of non-structural steel underway. The Governor joined members of the project team and construction workers to sign one of the last steel beams to be installed at the site. Expanding the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States, furthers Governor Cuomo's efforts to continue New York City's role as a leading tourism, hospitality and business destination. The first event hosted at the newly-expanded convention center will be the joint International Contemporary Furniture Fair and LightFair in May 2021. The combined design-industry events are expected to attract more than 40,000 design professionals to New York City. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE FAIR AND LIGHTFAIR TO CO-LOCATE EVENTS OVER NEXT DECADE STARTING IN 2021

New York (November 19, 2019) - The Javits Center today announced that two industry-leading events, International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) and Lightfair, will co-locate their events at the Javits Center during NYCxDESIGN in 2021 and then again in 2023, 2025, 2027 and 2029. The announcement comes as the unprecedented expansion project at the Javits Center is scheduled to be completed in 2021, adding 1.2 million square feet of total event-related space to the convention center on Manhattan’s West Side. [Read More]

Javits Center Moving Ahead with Rooftop Solar Project

New York (September 27, 2019) - The 1.4 MW solar energy project planned for the Javits Center will now include up to 2 MW of battery storage, an addition that will allow excess generation from Manhattan’s largest rooftop solar array to be stored for use during times of peak power demand, reducing energy costs and helping New York State meet its aggressive solar and energy storage targets to fight climate change. The solar and storage installation will help move New York State further along on its path to economy-wide carbon neutrality and advance New York's nation-leading clean energy and jobs goals. Under Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s Green New Deal, the state is charged with generating 70 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER ISSUES ITS 2019 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT – AN UNCONVENTIONAL OASIS

New York (July 17, 2019) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the issuance of the Javits Center’s 2019 Sustainability Report – An Unconventional Oasis, which outlines the efforts to further improve the sustainability of the busiest convention center in the United States. The 39-page report details the latest advances of the robust sustainability program at the iconic facility on Manhattan’s West Side, including the installation of state-of-the-art, energy-efficient equipment and policies, a growing wildlife sanctuary on a 6.75-acre green roof and a new project in conjunction with the New York Power Authority to install the largest rooftop solar array in New York City. The organization’s first Sustainability Report was issued in 2017, and this second report outlines the progress, as well as the projects ahead. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF CULTIVATED HOSPITALITY BRAND, CREATING A NEW DINING ATTRACTION GROUNDED IN NEW YORK’S CULINARY COMMUNITY

New York (July 10, 2019) - The New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC), which operates the Javits Center, has joined today with Levy Convention Centers and CxRA to announce the launch of a new hospitality brand at the Javits Center called Cultivated. The brand’s mission: reshape and reimagine the food and beverage experience throughout the iconic venue on Manhattan’s West Side. Cultivated will enhance the hospitality experience with elements rooted in the Empire State, including more New York ingredients and producers, as well as unique dining presentations, products sourced on-site and signature high-end catering for the largest and most exclusive events in New York City. Under Cultivated, guests will discover a strong focus on sustainability and community and meaningful use of state-of-the-art technology, in order to create an inspirational culinary experience that captures the vibrancy and vitality of the greatest city in the world. [Read More]

JAVITS JUNIORS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM EXPANDS TO OFFER FIVE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS TO SENIORS AT TWO CTE-FOCUSED MANHATTAN HIGH SCHOOLS

New York (April 02, 2019) - The Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation and the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC), which operates the Javits Center, today announced the second year of the Javits Juniors Scholarship Program, an effort designed to support the higher education of local high school students and encourage them to seek ways to improve their community through public service and innovative thinking. With the support of three leading event producers, Emerald Expositions, Informa and Reed Exhibitions, the scholarship program has expanded in its second year, allowing the award of five $5,000 college scholarships to three students at Urban Assembly School of Design and Construction and two students at High School of Fashion Industries, both located on Manhattan’s West Side. Each event producer has funded a $5,000 scholarship, and the Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation has funded two scholarships – which are eligible to all seniors at the participating schools following an essay writing contest. The scholarship program is being coordinated through the Fund for Public Schools, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the New York City’s public schools, and the New York City Department of Education. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces Selection of Developer to Install Rooftop Solar Arrays at Javits Center

New York (March 20, 2019) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the selection of a developer to design and install up to 1.4 megawatts of solar renewable energy on the green rooftop of the Javits Center on Manhattan's West Side. New York City's largest rooftop solar generation project to date will offset the building's electric load and directly support the Governor's Green New Deal, a nation-leading clean energy and jobs agenda for 100 percent carbon-free electricity in New York by 2040 and a ramp up for 70 percent of electricity to come from renewable energy by 2030. Siemens, a technology company and infrastructure provider with nearly 4,000 employees across New York State, was selected in the New York Power Authority's competitive bid process and will now begin final designs and permitting for the rooftop project. [Read More]

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TO INSTALL ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAYS AT JAVITS CENTER IN NEW YORK CITY

New York (August 17, 2018) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a call for developers to submit proposals for the installation of up to 1.4 megawatts of solar renewable energy on the rooftop and sidewalk of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. The solar power generation will offset the building's electric load and directly support the Governor's Reforming the Energy Vision strategy to build a statewide energy system that is clean, resilient and affordable for all New Yorkers and work toward the goal for 50 percent of the state's electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF JAKE – A NEW ONLINE ORDERING SYSTEM FOR CUSTOMERS

New York (January 11, 2018) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the official launch of Jake – a new online portal for exhibitors to order a wide range of products and services for upcoming events at the convention center on Manhattan’s West Side. The new portal allows customers to order more than 200 products and services from the Javits Center’s website – javitscenter.com – including electrical and cleaning services, as well as audio equipment and lighting fixtures. This online system is featured on a redesigned website that highlights many of the recent initiatives at the convention center. [Read More]

THE MARIAN B. AND JACOB K. JAVITS FOUNDATION AND THE JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCE CREATION OF JAVITS JUNIORS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

New York (November 22, 2017) - The Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation and the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC), which operates the Javits Center, today announced the creation of the Javits Juniors Scholarship Program, a new effort designed to support the higher education of local high school students and encourage them to seek ways to improve their community through public service and innovative thinking. With the support of the Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation, the Javits Juniors Scholarship Program will award two $5,000 college scholarships to two students in their senior year at the Urban Assembly School of Design and Construction following an essay writing contest. The new scholarship program serves as an expansion of the Javits Juniors program at the Javits Center, where educational tours are provided regularly to local students and community groups. On these tours, students are taught about the career of Sen. Jacob K. Javits, the mission and operations of the convention center, the importance of public service and the impact of the events industry. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER AND CENTERPLATE ANNOUNCE NEW SALAD DRESSING AT TASTE NY BISTRO FEATURING FIRST-EVER HONEY HARVESTED FROM ROOFTOP BEE HIVES

New York (October 04, 2017) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel and Centerplate President and CEO Chris Verros today announced a new salad dressing at the Javits Center's Taste NY Bistro featuring honey harvested from bee hives housed on the building's green roof. The honey-infused vinaigrette, along with other New York homegrown ingredients, is featured in a new salad offered at the cafe-style location inside the convention center on Manhattan's West Side. Launched by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo in 2013, Taste NY is a statewide initiative designed to promote New York's food and beverage industries at major tourist destinations and routes. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER RELEASES FIRST-EVER SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

New York (June 15, 2017) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the issuance of the Javits Center’s first-ever Sustainability Report, which outlines the efforts to green the largest convention center in New York. The 31-page report details a host of sustainable initiatives implemented at the Javits Center, including a significant reduction in the building’s energy consumption, the creation of a wildlife sanctuary and the establishment of partnerships with educational and community institutions, as well as customers and other government organizations. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Breaks Ground on Jacob K. Javits Convention Center Expansion

New York (March 01, 2017) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today broke ground on the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center expansion in Manhattan’s West Side. Following work that began on the building’s foundation in December 2016, this groundbreaking signifies the start of construction on the first phase of the $1.5 billion expansion project. Workers will begin to raise steel beams for the transformer building, which will provide power to the new Javits Center expansion. This early start will enable LendLease Turner, the construction consortium that was awarded the design-build contract last month, to jump-start work on the expansion. [Read More]

EMPIRE STATE DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCES SELECTION OF DESIGN-BUILD TEAM FOR $1.5 BILLION EXPANSION OF THE JACOB K. JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER

New York (January 31, 2017) - Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Howard Zemsky today announced the selection of the design-build team for the $1.5 billion expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Following a rigorous evaluation process utilizing five groups of technical experts, a blue ribbon selection panel has chosen LendLease Turner as the design-build team that will coordinate and construct the massive project on Manhattan's West Side. [Read More]

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING OF NEW TASTE NY BISTRO AT THE JAVITS CENTER

New York (September 26, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the grand opening of the new Taste NY Bistro at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. Building on the growing success of the Taste NY program, this café-style location offers visitors fresh, locally-sourced food and drinks, including homemade and homegrown produce and baked goods as well as New York wines, beers, and ciders. The Bistro will enhance the overall hospitality experience for more than two million guests who visit the Javits Center each year and complements the ongoing efforts to transform the convention center into a dynamic multi-use facility. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces RFP Process to Start Construction on the Jacob K. Javits Center This Year

New York (September 12, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a Request for Proposal process is now underway for construction work to ready the site of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center's major expansion on Manhattan's West Side. The RFPs, which kick off utility and related work, involve the construction of a new three-story building that will house transformers, back-up generators, and other electrical equipment. Contracts will be awarded in the fourth quarter of 2016, with work beginning shortly thereafter in 2016. The Design-Build procurement for the broader construction project is already underway with a winner expected to be approved in early 2017. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES LIVE VIDEO WEB STREAM FROM ITS GREEN ROOF, A NEARLY 7-ACRE HABITAT FOR WILDLIFE

New York (July 15, 2016) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the creation of a live video web stream from the Javits Center’s green roof, the second largest of its kind in the United States. The live stream, which displays a rooftop view of Manhattan’s rapidly developing West Side, will be available 24 hours a day and provide users with a unique perspective of the 6.75-acre green roof. Since its installation in 2014, the green roof has become a sanctuary for area wildlife, serving as a home for 17 bird species, five bat species and 300,000 honeybees. The green roof was constructed as a part of the Javits Center’s recent renovation, which included major upgrades to its façade, flooring, and mechanical and technology systems. The Javits Center has partnered with the New York City Audubon and other research institutions to study the impact of the green roof and other sustainability efforts. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER WELCOMES THE LARGEST EVER SUMMER FANCY FOOD SHOW TO MANHATTAN’S WEST SIDE

New York (June 27, 2016) - The Javits Center is proud to welcome the Summer Fancy Food Show, the largest marketplace devoted exclusively to specialty foods and beverages in North America. Hosted by the Specialty Food Association, this summer’s edition, which is being held from June 26 to June 28, is expected to become the largest in the show’s 62-year history, attracting 25,000 buyers and 2,670 exhibiting companies. Exhibitors from 55 countries around the world, including the United States, will showcase approximately 180,000 new specialty food products throughout the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side. At the three-day event, New York will boast the largest state presence with more than 265 food companies, followed by California, New Jersey, Texas, Massachusetts and Florida. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces Next Phase of Major Jacob K. Javits Center Expansion

New York (June 20, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a Request for Proposals will be released to three pre-qualified Design-Build teams that will compete for a contract to complete a major expansion to the Jacob K. Javits Center. The Governor also announced that the Convention Center Development Corporation will start early construction work this fall, enabling the project to progress on an accelerated timeframe. These steps mark a milestone in advancing Governor Cuomo’s plan announced in the 2016 State of the State address to expand the Javits Center and cement New York’s status as the premier destination for large-scale, world-class events. [Read More]

MORE THAN 1,100 BIRD SIGHTINGS AND 17 BIRD SPECIES OBSERVED ON THE JAVITS CENTER’S GREEN ROOF IN 2015

New York (April 26, 2016) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the results of a new study that shows more than 1,100 cumulative bird observations on the Javits Center’s green roof in 2015. Of the 1,124 bird sightings during the ecological study, 17 bird species were found, six more compared to the previous year. The green roof remains the only green roof in New York City with a colony of nesting Herring Gulls, which produced 14 chicks in 2015. The diversity of bird species using the roof from spring to fall demonstrates the importance of the building’s 6.75-acre green roof to the community’s ecosystem and its unique presence within New York’s dense urban landscape. The green roof was constructed as a part of the Javits Center’s recent renovation, which included major upgrades to its façade, flooring, and mechanical and technology systems. The Javits Center has partnered with New York City Audubon and other research institutions to explore and understand the impact of its sustainability initiatives on Manhattan’s West Side neighborhood. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER WELCOMES THE INTERNATIONAL VISION EXPO AND CONFERENCE TO MANHATTAN’S WEST SIDE

New York (April 15, 2016) - The Javits Center is proud to welcome the International Vision Expo and Conference, a world-leading ophthalmic event celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. From Friday, April 15 to Sunday, April 17, the trade show, which is co-owned by Reed Exhibitions and The Vision Council, is considered the world's most inclusive ophthalmic event, providing comprehensive education covering the full spectrum of medical, diagnostic, lab and practice management skills and the latest trends in eyewear fashion. More than 15,000 eyecare professionals are expected to attend the industry-only tradeshow, which will showcase visionary designs, leading products and technology, as well as the latest medical advances and business solutions within the eyecare industry. This month, the Javits Center is also celebrating its 30th anniversary – following three decades of hosting the world’s most iconic brands that have spurred economic activity and job creation across the New York region. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER WELCOMES THE FIFTH ANNUAL GREEN FESTIVAL, THE LARGEST AND LONGEST-RUNNING SUSTAINABILITY EVENT IN THE UNITED STATES

New York (April 15, 2016) - The Javits Center is excited to welcome the Green Festival to Manhattan’s West Side, marking the fifth annual edition of the event, the largest and longest running sustainability event in the United States. More than 20,000 attendees enjoyed last year’s event, and event organizers are expecting an even larger turnout for this year’s three-day show from Friday, April 15 to Sunday, April 17. As a unique platform connecting customers, retailers, wholesalers and corporations interested in green living, the festival boasts the widest selection of green products and services from food, fashion and health to energy, construction and design. Participants can shop and enjoy vegan, vegetarian, organic foods, hands-on demos, educational activities and inspirational speakers. Ticket sales have steadily increased each year, according to event producers, and with the opening of the new Hudson Yards-34th Street subway station, transportation to the Javits Center has been never been easier. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Announces Request for Qualifications from Design-Build Teams for Major Expansion of Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

New York (April 12, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today officially kicked off the major expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The New York Convention Center Development Corporation, which is a state subsidiary that owns the Javits Center, has issued a Request for Qualifications from Design-Build teams interested in completing the project. The Corporation will evaluate the respondents and select up to three qualified developers, which will then receive Requests for Proposals in June of this year to design and build the facility’s additions. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Kicks Off The 2016 New York International Automobile Show at The Javits Center

New York (March 26, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today kicked off the official opening of the 116th Annual New York International Automobile Show at the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side. The Governor drove a Silver Camaro ZL1 Convertible in a brief parade to kick-off the opening ceremony. More than one million visitors are expected to attend the ten-day event, the largest show of its kind in the country. The show features nearly one thousand of the world’s latest automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and concept cars at the convention center and is expected to generate more than $300 million in economic activity for the Empire State. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER ANNOUNCES NEW CAMERA SYSTEM ALLOWING CUSTOMERS TO VIEW EXHIBITS REMOTELY FROM MOBILE DEVICES

New York (March 21, 2016) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the launch of a new camera system that allows customers to view their exhibits in real time from a mobile app on their personal devices. Under the innovative program, thousands of customers operating an exhibit at the Javits Center can purchase the installation of high-definition cameras that provide live-stream aerial footage of their exhibit, enabling them to assess sales activity, the level of customer engagement and the impact of product placement. Live-stream footage from each camera – installed and maintained by Javits Center staff – will be available to customers 24 hours a day by downloading a free mobile app on their smartphone. The Javits Center is believed to be the first convention center in the United States to offer this service, the latest in a series of major infrastructure upgrades that has given the facility one of the most advanced technology systems of any event venue in the country. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER AND CENTERPLATE ANNOUNCE ONLINE CATERING AND DELIVERY SERVICES FOR EVENT MANAGERS AND EXHIBITORS

New York (February 16, 2016) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation President and CEO Alan Steel and Centerplate CEO Chris Verros today announced the launch of an online catering and delivery service for event managers and exhibitors participating in events at the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. This new on-demand, web-based service called Market Express allows customers to order a variety of meal and beverage options through their mobile devices for timely delivery to the their exhibit booth or offices throughout the six-block facility. With this online ordering service now available, thousands of exhibitors can dedicate more time to promoting their products and services and creating new business opportunities while on the show floor. Located on Manhattan’s West Side, the Javits Center is one of the first convention centers nationwide to implement an online catering and delivery service. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER WELCOMES THE 113TH NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR WITH 33,000 PARTICIPANTS

New York (February 10, 2016) - The Javits Center is proud to welcome the 113th Annual North American International Toy Fair to be held February 13-16, the largest showcase of the latest toy trends and innovations in the Western Hemisphere. During the four-day event, more than 1,200 exhibitors from 32 countries, including 300 first-time exhibitors, are expected to attend the 113th edition of the annual event on Manhattan’s West Side. A special consumer-facing, two-day edition of the show, Play Fair, will be co-located inside Javits North and is expected to premiere on February 13. Separate registration and fees apply to Play Fair, which is billed as an immersive, experience-rich event open to the public. Attendees can visit hands-on exhibits, inspiring displays and never-before-seen exclusives from major brands. Also co-located with Toy Fair is the Digital Kids Conference, which opens February 15 for entertainment and media executives, marketers, producers, digital media directors and licensing professionals seeking to engage children online and through digital devices. [Read More]

7th Proposal of Governor Cuomo's 2016 Agenda: Dramatic Expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Center to Attract More Events and Stimulate Regional Economy

New York (January 07, 2016) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today unveiled the seventh signature proposal of his 2016 agenda: dramatically expand and improve the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center to stimulate the regional economy. The proposal will expand the Javits Center by 1.2 million square feet, resulting in a fivefold increase in meeting and ballroom space, including the largest ballroom in the Northeast. A four-level, 480,000 square foot truck garage capable of housing hundreds of tractor-trailers at one time will also be constructed to improve pedestrian safety and local traffic flow. The proposal’s total projected cost is approximately $1 billion, paid for by the Javits Center within existing resources. Construction is expected to begin in late 2016. [Read More]

Governor Cuomo Recognizes Seven Innovative Programs Resulting in a Healthier Environment and Stronger Economy

New York (November 17, 2015) - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced New York State recognized seven organizations at the 12th Annual New York State Environmental Excellence Awards for their state-of-the-art programs and commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility and economic viability. [Read More]

Javits Center Achieves LEED Silver

New York (November 05, 2015) - The Javits Center has achieved LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the developers of the LEED building rating system. This certification follows the completion of a comprehensive renovation and revitalization that has transformed the Javits Center into a world-class facility for trade shows, conventions and special events. Located on Manhattan’s West Side, the Javits Center is considered the busiest convention center in the United States, supporting more than 17,000 jobs and generating up to $1.8 billion in economic activity for the Empire State. Led by the New York Convention Center Development Corporation, FXFOWLE, Epstein and Tishman Construction, an AECOM Company, the historic renovation has reduced the building’s energy consumption by 26%, saving energy costs and improving the area’s quality of life. The building’s signature feature – a nearly 7-acre green roof – is the country’s second largest of its kind and has become a sanctuary for area wildlife, including hundreds of bats, birds and bees. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER POSTS “YA GOTTA BELIEVE” ON ITS GIANT DIGITAL BILLBOARD FOR METS-ROYALS WORLD SERIES

New York (October 27, 2015) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Steel today announced that the Javits Center has posted a blue-and-orange “Ya Gotta Believe” message on its outdoor digital billboard in support of the New York Mets during Major League Baseball’s World Series. The double-sided LED Display along 11th Avenue is located near the entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel on Manhattan’s West Side. The sign measures 640 square feet and generates an average of 86,000 impressions a day. [Read More]

THE JAVITS CENTER LAUNCHES A RE-­‐DESIGNED WEBSITE WITH EXPANDED ONLINE SERVICES

New York (July 14, 2015) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the launch of a new, re-­‐designed website for the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. The revamped website – javitscenter.com – offers visitors a more user-­‐friendly experience that highlights all that the Javits Center and New York has to offer. The web portal provides enhanced services for event managers and exhibitors, including the ability to purchase a variety of critical services online for any trade show, public show or special event. The website also hosts interactive photo and video galleries which showcase the results of the Javits Center’s top-­‐to-­‐bottom renovation that was completed in 2014. The historic project included new façade, flooring, mechanical, sustainability and technology systems, as well as a 6.75-­‐acre green roof, the second largest of its kind in the country. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER OFFERS FREE WIRELESS SERVICE UP TO 256K OF BANDWIDTH THROUGHOUT ENTIRE BUILDING STARTING TODAY

New York (May 01, 2015) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the launch of free wireless service – up to 256K of bandwidth – for all customers and visitors at the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. With free wireless service throughout the facility, visitors can experience online access on their mobile devices while in and around the iconic structure on Manhattan’s West Side. Customers who prefer greater connectivity for larger data downloads will be charged at specific rates per day. The wireless service is part of a new state-­‐of-­‐the-­‐art technology system installed at the Javits Center, providing the facility with one of the most advanced systems among convention centers nationwide. The new system includes a consolidated data center, hundreds of new access points, new back-­‐up power supply units and a tracking system to monitor on-­‐site service requests. Each year, the Javits Center hosts more than two million visitors and 35,000 exhibiting companies who conduct millions of dollars of business with mobile devices throughout the 2.1 million square-­‐foot building. [Read More]

EVENTS AND ATTENDANCE AT THE JAVITS CENTER INCREASED 10% IN 2014 FOLLOWING A COMPREHENSIVE FACILITY RENOVATION

New York (March 12, 2015) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the year-­‐end totals of activity for 2014 at the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. A total of 177 events were held at the 2.1-­‐million square foot facility on Manhattan’s West Side, including trade shows, public shows and special events, a 10% increase compared to the prior year. Along with additional events, 2.5 million people visited the building last year, another 10% increase compared with 2013. In 2014, more than 23 million gross square feet was leased, an 8% increase compared to the prior year. The increases in the numbers of events, visitors and leased space comes as the Javits Center completed a top-­‐to-­‐bottom renovation, installing new façade, flooring, mechanical and telecommunications systems. [Read More]

JAVITS CENTER'S NEW SUSTAINABLE UPGRADES SERVE AS URBAN HABITAT FOR HUNDREDS OF BIRDS IN NEW YORK CITY

New York (March 02, 2015) - New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC) President and CEO Alan Steel today announced the results of a new study that shows 11 bird species have utilized the Javits Center's green roof as a habitat, demonstrating the roof's importance to the community's eco-­‐system. Located on Manhattan’s West Side, the 6.75-­‐acre green roof yielded 524 bird sightings during an ecological study conducted by the New York City Audubon and Fordham University in the spring and summer months of 2014. The construction of the 6.75-­‐acre green roof is a part of the Javits Center’s top-­‐to-­‐bottom renovation, which included the installation of thousands of fritted, translucent glass panels along the facility’s giant façade and rooftop. This bird-­‐friendly glass is designed to prevent bird collisions, and as a result, bird collisions decreased 90% since the installation, creating a healthier environment for those who live and work in and around the Javits Center, according to New York City Audubon. [Read More]

THE NEW JACOB K. JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER CELEBRATES ITS COMPREHENSIVE RENOVATION AND EXPANSION

New York (November 12, 2013) - The New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, Empire State Development and the New York Convention Center Development Corporation joined yesterday with the Hotel Association of New York City, FXFOWLE, Epstein and Tishman Construction, an AECOM Company, in a celebration of the newly renovated Jacob K. Javits Convention Center of New York. From the installation of a new 240,000 square-foot glass curtain wall to the construction of the largest green roof in the Northeast, the Javits Center has undergone a comprehensive, state-of-the-art renovation that has transformed the iconic facility into a world-class convention center that rivals any venue on the planet. [Read More]