GASTONIA, N.C.—Flanked by the mayor and city council of Gastonia, N.C., a crowd of local business owners, event planners, community organizations, arts committees and local residents watched Mayor Jennie Stultz cut the ribbon on the long-awaited 30,000-square-foot, multi-use Gastonia Conference Center.
Located in downtown Gastonia, the Center is easily accessible to I-85, just 15 miles from Charlotte/Douglas International Airport. The Center’s design pays homage to the surrounding architecture and heritage of the area and is registered for LEED Gold certification. The $10 million project is a centerpiece of downtown Gastonia’s robust revitalization to create a strong sense of community pride, grow local business, and keep revenues circulating within the local community. The conference center is owned by the city of Gastonia and is being financed through limited obligation bonds that will be repaid with hotel occupancy taxes over 23 years.
Immediately after the opening and dedication, the facility hosted a number of local organizations and associations including Gaston Arts Council, As One Ministries, Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and Professional Women’s Association.
“The local community has responded more than enthusiastically to the opening of the conference center,” says Carol Queen, director of sales. “We are encouraged by a good number of meetings and events on the books and optimistic about the year ahead.”
Large, Flexible Meeting Space
With 5,000 square feet of flexible space, the grand ballroom accommodates more than 300 people for banquet seating, or more than 400 people for auditorium-style seating. The ballroom features cutting-edge technology with traditional furnishings and appointments, and can be divided into four separate rooms.
The concept, development and operation of Gastonia Conference Center has always been about supporting the local and regional businesses and strengthening the local economy. The Gastonia Partnership Program demonstrates a commitment to supporting the growth of local business such as photographers, florists, hotels, caterers, and printers, which boosts the overall economic development of the Gastonia area. In addition to keeping revenues circulating within the local community, the Partnership Program strengthens sustainable efforts that help reduce negative environmental impacts.
Consistent with the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED certification, Gastonia Conference Center adheres to sustainable site development requirements that include water and energy efficiencies, recycled or salvaged materials and resources, and efficient air quality management. The parking deck includes nine conveniently located electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for hybrids, electric, and other plug-in vehicles.
Go to the Gastonia Conference Center.
