Tampa Convention Center starts major renovation

Construction has started on a $38 million renovation of the Tampa Convention Center, the largest improvement since the waterfront building opened in 1990.

What's new: The Tampa Riverwalk has been rerouted north of the building while development firm Skanska builds 18 waterfront meeting rooms covering 18,000 square feet on two levels and overlooking the Hillsborough River, with a terrace and outdoor space.

• Construction should be finished by June 2023.

Of note: The construction schedule was planned to accommodate normal Gasparilla festivities.