City officials approve Oak View Group to manage Convention Center operations
An agreement approved Monday evening is part of a $125 million renovation plan aimed at boosting tourism and economic development.
The Palm Springs City Council officially selected Oak View Group to oversee operations at the Palm Springs Convention Center and Bureau of Tourism under a long-term management agreement approved Monday evening.
The decision followed a competitive bidding process in which OVG was chosen for its lower cost proposal, higher capital contribution and plans to increase convention occupancy and visitor spending. The partnership supports the city’s proposed $125 million renovation of the Convention Center.
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Under the agreement, OVG will handle daily operations, lead capital improvements, manage bookings and promotions, and oversee various contracts including food and beverage services. The deal includes local protections and labor commitments.
“Tonight’s action is a generational investment in Palm Springs’ economic future,” said Mayor Ron deHarte in a news release sent immediately following the unanimous vote. “With this partnership and our proposed $125 million renovation, we’re modernizing our Convention Center, boosting tourism, and bringing millions in new spending to our hotels, restaurants, and businesses. This is a game changer not just for Palm Springs, but for the entire Coachella Valley.”
OVG already operates Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert and will manage the city’s Plaza Theatre when it reopens in December 2025 following restoration work. The company brings venue management expertise to Palm Springs’ tourism infrastructure.
“We’re honored to have been selected by the City of Palm Springs to manage the operations of the Palm Springs Convention Center and Bureau of Tourism,” said Greg O’Dell, president of Venue Management for Oak View Group. “This is a world-class destination with a proud legacy of welcoming visitors from around the globe. Our team is committed to building on that tradition by enhancing the guest experience, driving economic impact, and ensuring that the Palm Springs Convention Center is a premier venue for meetings, conventions, and community events.”
The city expects to complete the contract within days of the council’s approval, with transition services starting immediately. Renovation and planning work will continue through 2026 as the Convention Center begins its next phase of operations.
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