In the News

The future of Durham’s meetings and events industry is at a pivotal moment. Hunden Partners’ recent comprehensive market and financial feasibility study provides insights into the lost convention business Durham has experienced due to an outdated and small convention center and the economic impact a new, larger convention center will have on Durham and its small businesses and residents. Hunden’s study projects there will be a $5 billion impact on Durham over a 30-year period which could fuel local businesses, create jobs, and bring vibrancy to the downtown area.

Hunden’s study considered multiple options to determine the best path forward for Durham’s convention landscape. Our findings made it clear: while expansion is an option, a new, state-of-the-art convention center with an attached headquarters hotel would unlock Durham’s full potential as a regional meetings and events hub.

A modern convention center wouldn’t just accommodate larger events— it would create a ripple effect throughout the community, driving foot traffic to local businesses, diversifying revenue streams, and reinforcing Durham’s position as a premier destination for conventions, trade shows, and corporate gatherings.

Our team, just like all around the world who witnessed the destruction of the California fires, felt compelled to help. As such, Hunden Partners contributed to the Destinations International Los Angeles Wildfire Recovery Fund, joining a group of travel and tourism industry supporters.

The Destinations International team, in close collaboration with Adam Burke, President & CEO, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Kristin McGrath, CDME, CDME, Executive Director, Visit Pasadena, and other key leaders in the region, has been actively coordinating relief efforts and providing support since the fires began. Through the collective generosity of donors, the fund has surpassed $125,000, delivering critical support to the Los Angeles area during this challenging time.

The initial grants include:
• $50,000 to the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Red Cross
• $50,000 to the Pasadena Community Foundation Eaton Canyon Fire Relief Fund
• $25,000 to Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen

We are deeply inspired by the resilience, strength, and spirit of Los Angeles County. This city’s ability to come together and rebuild in the face of adversity is a testament to its people, its community, and its enduring vibrancy.

To learn more or to join this vital cause, visit https://lnkd.in/g-geaNUa

Hunden Partners, alongside strategic partner Kirk Slaughter and professionals from Convergence Design, conducted a market and financial feasibility study for a new multi-use event venue in East Montgomery County, Texas. The existing 33,000-square-foot meeting complex served weddings and private events but lacked the scale and flexibility to support larger gatherings. With the area’s rapid growth, there was a clear demand for a high-quality, revenue-generating event venue.

Hunden analyzed local economic, demographic, and tourism data, assessed market trends, conducted stakeholder interviews, and used geofencing research to study visitor patterns. The study also evaluated the local hospitality market to determine whether a new hotel would be necessary. Based on these findings, Hunden developed demand and revenue projections that guided the project’s financial feasibility.

As a result, the East Montgomery County Improvement District is moving forward with a 210,000-square-foot convention center, set to begin construction in January 2025. Designed to host corporate events, sports tournaments, and trade shows, the venue is projected to generate $1.73 billion in spending, $775 million in new earnings, and more than 500 full-time equivalent jobs over 30 years. Hunden is proud to have played a role in shaping this transformational investment, which will drive economic growth and establish the area as a premier event destination.

The East Montgomery County Improvement District (EMCID) recently announced it has secured over $159 million in bond proceeds to bring a 210,000-square-foot convention center and parking garage to Valley Ranch Town Center in New Caney, Texas. The facility will include event, meeting, and exhibit space, along with plans to construct a connected full-service hotel in the future.

Hunden Partners provided market and feasibility analysis for the project and identified strong demand for multi-use space in the Greater Houston area. Over the next 30 years, the project is expected to generate $1.73 billion in economic impact, hundreds of new jobs, and substantial sales, hotel, and venue tax revenues for the district.

Congratulations to EMCID and its partners as they move forward with this transformative development.

Congratulations to the Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet, which continues its record-breaking pace to attract private investment in tourism development projects across the Commonwealth. As Governor Andy Beshear announced, with 1,696 jobs and $256 million in private investment, this is the second straight record-breaking year. This reflects ongoing growth in Kentucky’s tourism industry, as last year, the state achieved its best year for tourism on record, generating an economic impact of $13.8 million and sustaining 95,222 jobs.

At Hunden Partners, we look forward to being a key partner to analyze these projects to determine their economic impact on the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Congratulations on a record-setting year!

At Hunden Partners, we strive to empower communities with forward-thinking strategies rooted in data and analysis. Our recent feasibility study for the proposed amphitheater in Washington, Illinois, reflects this mission, offering a comprehensive vision for how this project could transform this area into a vibrant hub for live entertainment and economic growth.

A key contributor to this effort was Cassidy Sutton, a senior analyst whose expertise was instrumental in identifying the potential for this project to revitalize an underutilized area. This project could fill a gap in central Illinois’ live entertainment offerings, attracting regional visitors and creating new opportunities for local businesses. Cassidy’s work highlighted that the amphitheater could not only meet the demand for high-capacity live entertainment venues in central Illinois but also generate tens of millions in net new spending within the local economy over the next decade.

This development isn’t just about creating a venue—it’s about building a cultural and economic catalyst that could bring day-trippers, overnight guests, and much-needed opportunities to the area. With projections showing support for an average of 100 jobs annually and millions in revenue potential, the study sheds light on how strategic investments can benefit local businesses, schools, and infrastructure without compromising the city’s broader priorities.

Hunden Partners, in partnership with the Johnson City Development Authority (JCDA) and the City of Johnson City, is proud to announce the release of the Request for Qualifications to identify and select a qualified developer for the redevelopment of the historic John Sevier Center and the Downtown Centre in Johnson City, Tennessee. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the northeastern portion of the state, Johnson City, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, boasts stunning natural beauty, with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and boating. The John Sevier Center, built in 1924 as a luxury hotel, provides for a compelling redevelopment opportunity to return this iconic building to its previous splendor. The project sits within an Opportunity Zone, would be eligible for historic tax credits, and other public funding tools.

Developers are requested to respond to this RFQ by the end of December and the most qualified firms will thereafter be invited to submit proposals. Interested firms can visit www.hunden.com/downloads for more information and submission details.

Through Hunden Partners’ ongoing collaboration with Metro, Metro Council and the Metropolitan Exposition Recreation Commission anticipate a January vote to affirm a new plan to redevelop the Portland Expo Center into a dynamic sports, tourism, and cultural engagement hub. Earlier this year, Hunden Partners completed a comprehensive assessment of the local and regional sports market and Expo’s current business model, which resulted in a comprehensive vision for Expo’s future.

The approximately $300-million proposed redevelopment program includes:
• A commitment to honor Expo’s profound history with a community center and memorialization and representation exhibited throughout the buildings and site to honor Portland’s Japanese American, Black, and Indigenous communities;
• State-of-the-art twin ice sheet facility to support hockey, figure skating, and other ice sports;
• An indoor court facility designed to accommodate flat-floor sporting events, with space for nine basketball and 18 volleyball courts;
• An athletic and entertainment facility that houses sport-support spaces, a family entertainment center, and food and beverage offerings.

Hunden’s work demonstrates the transformative potential of this project, with a projected 1.5 million annual visitors—up from the current 300,000 at Expo’s current facilities—and the addition of 64 new sports tournaments and more than 50,000 new hotel room nights annually to the Portland region. Follow-on phases of development on the site may include a hotel and other commercial uses. This redevelopment would elevate Portland’s presence in the sports tourism sector and serve as a space for connection, reflection, and community enrichment.

The Hilbert Circle Theatre has been a vital part of Indianapolis’ cultural and architectural heritage for over a century. With proposed renovations under review, this historic venue is poised for a transformation to honor its legacy while preparing it for future generations.

Hunden Partners is proud to contribute to discussing the proposed renovations for the historic Hilbert Circle Theatre, a cultural centerpiece of Indianapolis since 1916. As the home of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO), the theatre plays a key role in the city’s arts community. These updates will modernize its systems, strengthen its financial foundation, and secure its position as a cornerstone of cultural life in Indianapolis.

For more information, check out the Indianapolis Business Journal, ISO planning a major facelift for Hilbert Circle Theatre article.

Hunden Partners, led by CEO Rob(in) Hunden, recently completed a feasibility study for the Dream Big Burnside Authority for a resort at General Burnside Island State Park. The proposed development could generate $737 million in economic impact, create 700 construction jobs, and provide 28 full-time jobs once operational.

This project represents a transformative opportunity for Burnside, Pulaski County, and the entire 10-county region by expanding tourism beyond the summer months and creating a year-round destination. Proposed features include over 120 hotel rooms, rental cabins, multiple retail, food and beverage outlets, ballroom and meeting space, and outdoor event space—all while ensuring the park remains fully accessible to the public, including its beloved hiking trails, golf course, and other amenities.

The Ever-Changing Convention Center Landscape is Faced with Challenges and Opportunities

In a recent article in The New York Times, Rob(in) Hunden, CEO of Hunden Partners, discussed the economic benefit for communities when they choose to invest in convention centers. At Hunden Partners, we take a holistic approach in our market assessment, financial feasibility, and economic impact analyses and examine industry trends, financial realities, and unique opportunities for each destination where we work. The successful convention destination is more than just a great building but includes a compelling and authentic walkable district, plus a great multi-hotel package. Through these analyses, we assist our clients as they carefully consider the ROI of convention center investments. Rob’s insights help underscore the dynamic competition these cities face and the financial complexities involved.

Hunden Partners’ expertise continues to lead cities toward smart, data-driven decisions in today’s competitive, event-driven economy.

The City of Tulsa has issued a Request for Qualifications, the first phase of a two-part selection process, to identify qualified developers for a 650-room headquarters hotel adjacent to the Cox Business Convention Center.

Hunden Partners is committed to continuing to support the City of Tulsa’s vision to grow its economy and increase both business and leisure travel to the City with the addition of a convention center headquarters hotel. The project will enhance the Cox Business Convention Center and BOK Center within the Tulsa Arena District. Beyond meeting current demand, this hotel will position this district to be a catalyst for economic growth, drawing events that highlight the city’s assets and attract business leaders who may ultimately consider Tulsa for their operations.

Tulsa is on the move with substantial market growth, amazing tourism assets, and ongoing development across the city, including a $55 million upgrade to the Cox Business Convention Center, the addition of the OSU medical school campus, and the expansion of the Gathering Place. The addition of a headquarters hotel is a compelling development opportunity.

For more information on the RFQ and to see more details, visit https://lnkd.in/gU-my3EH

College Station Explores Transformational Growth

The City of College Station City Council recently awarded Hunden Partners, led by Rob Hunden, a contract to study the feasibility of a convention center. This marks a pivotal moment for the city as it considers the financial and economic implications to expand its convention center, which could increase the capacity to attract and host large-scale events, enhancing College Station’s position as a destination.

The study will unfold in two phases. The first will focus on gathering critical data and insights through stakeholder engagement, market analysis, and historical trends. The second phase, contingent on council approval, will delve deeper into evaluating potential sites, financial strategies, and the projected economic and community impact of such a development.

At Hunden Partners, we understand the transformative power of thoughtfully planned convention spaces. We look forward to seeing how this process unfolds and the long-term value it could create for the community.

Three years ago, Fabio de la Cruz introduced an ambitious vision for Lafayette Square Mall in Indianapolis, initially aiming for a $200 million transformation celebrating the diverse International Marketplace district. Today, the plan has grown to a $1 billion mixed-use development, “The Square,” featuring apartments, a hotel, a film studio, dining, and retail.

At Hunden Partners, we recognize both the potential and the complex challenges such a large-scale project presents. As our CEO, Rob(in) Hunden, states, “Transforming a regional mall into a vibrant, mixed-use destination is an untested idea and challenging to finance, especially in today’s economic environment.” Projects like these require visionary leadership, transparent financial structures, robust public-private partnerships, and clear pathways to investor confidence.

Hunden Partners remains dedicated to supporting projects that bring lasting economic impact. For all transformative projects, collaboration and clear funding strategies are vital to bring bold visions to life.

At Hunden Partners, our market analysis, financial feasibility analysis, and economic impact studies provide valuable insight and direction for a variety of project types, including underutilized historic buildings. In Johnson City, Tennessee, the Johnson City Development Authority engaged Hunden to determine the highest and best use of the John Sevier building, the redevelopment of which will build upon the revitalization already taking place in downtown Johnson City and provide future economic benefits to the city.

Historic buildings, with their architectural character and connections to the history of a place, provide a great platform for communities to anchor and enhance the authenticity and vibrancy of downtown destinations. Yet, these structures often present complex challenges for cities to find market-responsive uses with financing strategies to facilitate redevelopment. Our data-driven understanding of the market, in conjunction with our financial and impact analysis, provides the foundation that allows Hunden to help communities deliver transformative projects that exist at the intersection of real estate development and economic development.

At Hunden Partners, we specialize in real estate consulting for transformative projects that improve the quality of a place and help clients move their projects from concept to reality. Connect with us to learn more about our work in Johnson City and throughout North America.

We are thrilled to welcome Ronnie Burt as our new Senior Vice President. Ronnie has decades of experience in the destination management and convention industries, with a proven track record in markets like Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Indianapolis, and Baltimore. In his role, his primary focus will be on developing and serving Hunden Partners’ DMO, economic development organization, and municipal clients to create great places. This includes destination development and placemaking plans, feasibility studies and development strategies for major tourism assets such as convention centers, hotels, sports facilities, mixed-use districts and entertainment venues.

His leadership will help us continue expanding our impact on the global stage, ensuring that communities can develop great places that attract visitors and drive economic growth.

Welcome to the team, Ronnie!

At Hunden Partners, we are passionate about placemaking and committed to working with clients and their communities who dream of unlocking their potential.

That is why we are excited to announce that we have been selected by the Dream Big Burnside Authority to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the development of General Burnside Island. Our team will guide the process to assess the potential for this exciting public-private partnership aimed at transforming the island into a vibrant destination.

The study will explore opportunities to bring new amenities like lodging, restaurants, conference centers, and entertainment venues to the island that builds upon a vision dating back to 1958. We’re honored to work alongside the City of Burnside, SPEDA, and Pulaski County to help shape the future of this unique Kentucky State Parks asset.

At the recent Bisnow Indianapolis State of the Market event, Rob Hunden, CEO, joined a distinguished panel with Mel Raines, CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, and Chris Jensen, Mayor of Noblesville. The discussion explored the transformative projects shaping the future of central Indiana.

Rob Hunden shared the strategic vision behind the Noblesville Events Arena, a key element of the Innovation Mile project, and how it’s more than just an entertainment venue. Hunden Partners completed a market analysis, financial feasibility, and economic impact study for the development, a thoughtfully planned investment that will drive long-term growth for Noblesville and the region.

The collaboration between the Indiana Pacers and the City of Noblesville reflects a comprehensive approach to community-building—creating a dynamic, mixed-use environment that will offer entertainment, dining, housing, and jobs of the future. Mayor Jenson highlighted how Noblesville, with its prime location and growth potential, is poised to become a major hub for innovation and development in the state.

Hunden Partners continues its work on visionary projects that prioritize not just infrastructure but the creation of a live-work-play-visit destination that will benefit communities for years to come.

Washington County releases its 30-year master plan. During Tuesday’s Washington County Commissioners meeting, Expo Director Harrison Williams discussed some of the specifics of the 30-year master plan, which is now posted on the Expo’s website, www.washingtoncountyexpo.com, for the public to view.

The long-term plan, created in-house using data from a market study performed by Hunden Partners, analyzes the current facilities at the Expo, provides recommendations for how and when those amenities should be enhanced or replaced, explores expansion opportunities, and shows cost projections associated with the upgrades.

Butler University will be home to Hilton’s first Curio property on a university campus after Hunden Partner’s market and financial feasibility study.

We are excited to share Hunden Partners‘ role in the adaptive reuse of Butler University’s historic Ross Hall into a boutique hotel under the Curio Collection by Hilton! This project is particularly significant, as it marks the first Curio property on a university campus and will be the first in Indiana—a milestone that beautifully blends Butler’s rich heritage with Hilton’s renowned hospitality.

We look forward to seeing the Curio Collection hotel become a cornerstone of the Butler Gateway Project and a new destination in midtown Indianapolis!

Fort Worth’s Future: A Strategic Expansion

The City of Fort Worth announced the next construction phase of the Fort Worth Convention Center expansion is expected to begin in 2026. The $606 million project will modernize the aging complex to meet the rapidly growing demands of Fort Worth.

Hunden Partners and Rob(in) Hunden have been at the forefront of this transformative effort, having conducted numerous studies over the past 20 years. A 2019 study projected $6.9 billion in new spending over the next 30 years from the expansion, including an additional 97,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, 48,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and a 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom designed to accommodate larger conventions and drive economic impact.

As city leaders and stakeholders continue to champion this project, the expansion will redefine the City of Fort Worth’s downtown skyline and position the city as a premier destination for large-scale events and conventions. The expansion is more than just a building project—it’s a strategic investment in the city’s future.

Inc. Magazine released its Inc. 5000 list today!

Hunden Partners is ranked 2,622 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, placing us among the fastest-growing private companies in America! We are especially thrilled to rank 54 in real estate and 119 in Illinois. The ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses.

“We’re so honored to be recognized by Inc. for our business growth and continued expansion,” says Rob(in) Hunden, CEO and Founder of Hunden Partners. “Without our amazing team, this achievement would not be possible. I am honored with this recognition, but even more, I’m grateful to be surrounded by talented, passionate professionals daily who made this growth possible.”

We’re honored to be part of this dynamic group of businesses shaping the future of our economy. Thank you to our clients, partners, and incredible team for helping us reach this milestone!

Hunden Partners Analyzes Philadelphia’s Arena Market: Can a National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Hockey League (NHL) Arena Separately Exist without Long-term Public Support?

At Hunden, we support downtown development and projects that create synergistic walkable uses that generate a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors to live, work, and be entertained. However, our study in Philadelphia concerned how much the market can grow with two major arenas in the market, and if that growth is enough to support long-term private financing of renovations and rebuilds over the long haul. What is the net new impact to the city of Philadelphia? What are the likely long-term impacts? Our study tells a cautionary tale from other markets of similar strength that have developed separate NHL and NBA arenas. The downstream impacts can challenge both operations and the viability of the venues if conditions are not just right.

“We pride ourselves on just simply telling the truth based on the analytics that we figure out,” said Hunden Partners President and CEO Rob(in) Hunden, whose firm is one of the leaders in this niche of the sports world. “One client isn’t worth 20 years of credibility damage.”

Exciting developments are underway in Indianapolis, and the proposal is to create a new professional sports development area (PSDA). According to a comprehensive financial analysis conducted by Hunden Partners, this PSDA could potentially generate $2.1 billion in state and local tax revenue over the next 32 years.

Key findings from the Hunden report include:

• $1.7 billion from state income and sales taxes, with an annual cap of $9.5 million directed toward stadium construction bonds.
• $328.5 million in local income taxes and $193.3 million from countywide admissions and innkeepers’ taxes.
• Projections assume a 20,500-seat stadium opening in 2028, hosting an MLS team, a National Women’s Soccer League team, and additional events.

Our projections consider various scenarios, including base, optimal, conservative, and stress cases, to understand the potential revenue streams comprehensively. The optimal market scenario deemed the “best case,” projects tax revenue for the district’s use at $984.4 million over 32 years. Even the conservative case anticipates a substantial $728.8 million.

Hunden Partners: Leading the Way in Mixed-Use Development

We proudly announce that Hunden Partners has been named to Sports Business Journal’s Power Players list, recognizing our excellence in mixed-use development consulting.

Under the visionary leadership of CEO Rob(in) Hunden, Hunden Partners has been instrumental in the integration of sports and real estate, transforming stadium, arena, and convention center surroundings into vibrant, multi-functional districts. Our in-depth analyses, commitment to truth telling, and passion for placemaking make possible the innovative projects that enhance the gameday experience while creating thriving, year-round communities.

We thank Sports Business Journal for this recognition and our exceptional team for their dedication and placemaking efforts. Together, we are shaping the future of sports venues and destination development.

As the Paris 2024 Olympics commence today, we look ahead with anticipation to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, a city uniquely equipped to host this global spectacle. In a recent Coliseum News article, Hilary Ash, VP of Games Delivery and Venue Infrastructure for LA28, shared insights with Rob Hunden, CEO of Hunden Partners, on the transformative potential of these upcoming Games.

Hilary Ash brings a lifetime of experience and passion to LA28, overseeing the venue infrastructure and delivery. Her commitment to utilizing existing world-class venues, aligning with the Olympic Agenda 2020+5, ensures a sustainable and innovative approach to hosting the Games. These are – Solidarity, Digitalization, Sustainable Development, Credibility, and Economic and Financial Resilience.

Rob Hunden and Hunden Partners’ expertise in the economics of placemaking, especially in mixed-use stadium districts, further highlights the integral role of strategic urban planning in hosting such monumental events.

As we celebrate the Olympic spirit in Paris, it’s inspiring to see how cities like Los Angeles are leading the charge in creating sustainable, community-centered, and economically resilient environments. The 2028 Games promise not just a sporting spectacle but a celebration of LA’s heritage and its forward-looking vision.

What an incredible session yesterday morning! Rob Hunden, CEO of Hunden Partners, presented the annual State of the Industry (SOTI) report at the ALSD Conference in Los Angeles. This year’s report highlights the surge in new venues, big renovations, and mixed-use districts, including a spotlight on the elevation of college sports facilities.

Key insights:

• Nearly $10 billion in new or renovated major-league venues.
• Four new major league arenas and stadiums under construction, totaling $6.6 billion.
• Six major league facility renovations proposed or underway, with $3.2 billion invested.
• The shift in college sports to offer more diverse, amenity-rich experiences.

“It was an honor to present our eighth annual SOTI report, which includes more valuable information than ever,” says Rob Hunden.

Download the full ALSD State of the Industry deck here: https://hunden.com/downloads/

As shopping malls across the U.S. face challenges from the rise of online sales, the City of El Cajon is taking proactive steps to ensure the future vibrancy of Parkway Plaza, East County’s largest regional shopping mall.

The city commissioned a market analysis, resulting in two visionary redevelopment plans from Hunden Partners and 505 Design. These plans transform Parkway Plaza into a mixed-use district with residential, retail, office, entertainment, and community spaces. Imagine “eatertainment” facilities combining traditional dining with immersive sport-centered bars and dynamic lifestyle retail shops, all centered around a linear park.

Rob Hunden, CEO of Hunden Partners, highlighted the urgency: “You’re in that transition phase where if you let it go too long, it’s going to go in a direction you’re probably not too fond of, so it’s a great time to assess the situation and the opportunity.” 

The Hunden Partners‘ recent comprehensive feasibility study for the Portland Expo Center revealed a significant opportunity for more regional sports facilities, from youth to professional levels.

We found the City of Portland is at an inflection point with a need for revitalization, and that sports can be a huge catalyst for that. There is a strong opportunity for development that can enhance the Metro area. Bringing sports to the forefront can be a new way for Portland to present itself as a regional hub for sports while leveraging the current professional team and sports corporate presence. The transformation of the Expo Center could also honor the site’s rich history while positioning Portland as a regional sports hub and boosting the local economy and community engagement.

Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading association representing destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), today announced nine recipients of the Destinations International Foundation Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) and Hospitality Scholarship. Each student will receive USD $8,000 for the 2024-2025 academic year. To date, the foundation has raised more than USD $225,000 from individual and organization donors to support this program.

At Hunden Partners, we are committed to increasing access to tourism and destination real estate development careers for historically underrepresented populations. This is why we are excited to invest directly in the attendance of this year’s Destinations International Foundation’s Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) and Hospitality Scholarship recipients so they can attend DI’s Annual Conference in July. We look forward to meeting the scholarship recipients in Tampa and deepening our relationship with them through mentorship and networking during the conference and beyond. The support of this program, by numerous individuals, destination members, and partners, will foster workforce inclusion and provide invaluable opportunities, and we are happy to play a role in it.