Hello, Expo!

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GONZALES — A long, green ribbon stretched in front of the new Expo Center at J.B. Wells Park. City Manager Allen Barnes and Gonzales Mayor Bobby Logan advised everyone assembled to grab a pair of scissors to help cut the ribbon, for this was “their” building.

“It was a dream about 35 years ago of some businessmen and women here in Gonzales to build a convention and expo center, and that just didn’t happen,” said Logan moments before the ribbon cutting ceremony. “Well, today that dream has come true.”

After years of discussion, debates on location, near sabotage from opponents and an initial bid that was higher than the budgeted funds for the entire project, Gonzales now has an indoor meeting and convention facility that rivals the best in the area and far exceeds anything currently here.

And if anyone had any questions about the building, Logan good-naturedly directed folks to “ask Allen Barnes.”

The $3.29 million center is definitely large enough to hold any wedding, concert, class reunion or RV show that decides to roll up. Competitive rental rates peak at $1,500 on Saturdays and decline from there based on the day. Weekend rentals are $3,250 and non-profit groups get discounted rates across the board.

The facility is easy to navigate. Once you enter the front doors a large kitchen and bar-like serving area stretches out across the hall. Both single and family-style restrooms flank the front doors and storage and breakout rooms occupy the far corners. Two large overhead doors are on each opposing wall and large fans spin overhead that help circulate the cool air conditioning down to the shined concrete floors. And outside the front windows the rodeo arena looms large, waiting patiently for both buildings to be used in tandem.

If anyone needs to be heard, the portable stage and its permanent sound system is loud enough to get any congregation’s attention.

Before the ribbon was officially cut, Logan referenced his favorite film. They have built it and he is ready for the crowds to come.

“This here about 13 years ago was just a field. And now it is a field of dreams,” Logan said. “Well, 48 weekends out of the year this last year, that [rodeo arena] was full. And I’m hoping to say that many weekends here at the expo center will also be filled.”

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