The planned Miami Beach Convention Center renovations were previewed for a select group of attendees Thursday morning.
The City of Miami Beach has invested $500 million plus into the plans for the site.
The new convention center and adjacent hotel hopes to attract major events and conventions. The hotel is expected to pump $2.4 billion in lease and tax revenue to the City of Miami Beach.
"People come here to a convention, visit Miami Beach, they like it, and then before you know it, they're living here, establishing business here. That's why it's so vital," said Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez.
The hotel, which will not use any taxpayer dollars, is also expected to create nearly 1,500 direct and indirect local jobs, and solidify Miami Beach as an international destination.
Originally built in 1957, developers said it's time for a change. Plans for the expansion include rooftop parking, 12 acres of parks and a grand ballroom.
