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FAQ's
Frequently asked questions
Why is The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL) moving from the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center (KBHCCD)?
TBAAL’s move supports the City of Dallas’ voter-approved Convention Center Master Plan, which includes the expansion and modernization of the KBHCCD. To ensure programs continue seamlessly, TBAAL will temporarily relocate to The Women’s Museum in Fair Park while construction is underway. This move allows TBAAL to maintain its season programming, community events, and educational outreach without interruption.
How long will TBAAL operate out of The Women’s Museum, and what can patrons expect during that time?
TBAAL’s temporary residency at The Women’s Museum begins in Fall 2025 and will continue through Spring 2029, when the KBHCCD renovation is scheduled for completion. The renovated museum provides more than 63,000 square feet of space, including a 150–200-seat cabaret theatre, gallery and exhibition areas, box office, gift shop, auditorium, staff lounge, multi-purpose / meeting rooms, and office suite rooms, and a large open atrium and patio spaces. Larger-scale performances and events will continue to be hosted at partner venues across the city.
Who is leading the renovation and relocation work for TBAAL, and what improvements are being made at The Women’s Museum?
The Dikita Enterprises team serves as the Project Management - Owner’s Representative for this project (Component 4 of the Convention Center Master Plan). The KAI Architecture & Engineering team leads the design, the joint venture, RMS (HJ Russell – Phillips May – Structure Tone Southwest), is in charge of construction of the new TBAAL facility and stakeholder engagement, and Phoenix I is the contractor managing the renovation for The Women’s Museum (TWM).
TBAAL Renovations include infrastructure modernization, improved ADA accessibility, enhanced lighting and sound systems, and flexible performance and exhibition spaces that align with TBAAL’s mission to promote African American arts and culture.
Will TBAAL’s events and festivals continue during the Convention Center construction period?
Absolutely. TBAAL’s signature events, including the Labor Day Weekend Riverfront Jazz Festival, the State Fair Jazz Weekend Events, and other Events yet to be announced, will continue during the relocation period. The Fair Park grounds and The Women’s Museum will serve as the home for these performances, bringing together thousands of local and national attendees.
TBAAL’s presence in Fair Park ensures that Dallas remains a vibrant hub for African American culture, creativity, and community connection throughout the renovation.
How is the City of Dallas and the Dikita-led project team engaging the community throughout this transition?
Through public meetings, neighborhood sessions, online updates, and direct partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations, the project team is committed to keeping Dallas residents informed and involved. Every phase of this relocation and renovation reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accessibility, and community voice. The Component 4 Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), RMS (HJ Russell, Phillips-May, and Structure Tone Southwest), a joint venture, has a Community Outreach and Engagement team. Inquiries can be sent to: Minerva Rodriguez, minerva@mrrpr.com

You Said
Convention Center District to feel lively and welcoming

Active Uses

You Said
Walkability and stronger bicycle connections

Pedestrian and Bicycle

You Said
The site feels disconnected from neighborhood

Neighborhood
Connectivity

You Said
Safer, welcoming, better connected-transit desired

Public Transit

You Said
Bird friendly glass needs to be a priority

Bird
Safety
Public Engagement Highlight
Public Engagement Highlight
You Said
"We need more green spaces and places for families to gather in downtown Dallas."
We Did
Added 50 acres of parks and plazas, including a new 10-acre central park with playgrounds, splash pads, and event lawns in the heart of downtown.
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