AMERICAS - Albuquerque Convention Center (ACC), in New Mexico, USA, is to undergo a US$20m renovation, with city leaders believing now is the time to invest.

The new £20m renovation will revamp the western section of the old Center, with huge windows, a  prominent walkway and a completely new exterior and interior.

"Its a competitive world out there," says Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau's Dale Lockett . "We are constantly looking at where our competition is going and the re-investment in their product," he adds.

The city's Economic Development Director, John Garcia, says: "The market is still there, so its a great opportunity for us to sell a destination. We want people to come to Albuquerque, and take advantage of the culture, history and arts on offer."

Business owners are also backing the renovation. Steve Vatoseow of Lindy's Restaurant says: "During these hard economic times anything that will attract business to Albuquerque will benefit the city." Roy Johnson of Sumner and Dene Art Gallery adds: "The convention industry is a great benefit because it brings in money from outside the state."

The new construction at ACC is expected to start in March 2013.

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