JACKSON, Mich.—American 1 Credit Union has paid Jackson County $4 million for the naming rights to a new convention center located at the Jackson County Fairgrounds.
The funds will contribute to the construction of the convention center, the $301-million CU stated in a release. The American 1 Convention Center will be a completely new structure that will be complimentary to the existing American 1 Event Center. An unveiling ceremony was held Nov. 4 at the future site of the building.
The convention center is part of a larger use plan for the fairground site created by Jackson County officials. Construction on the American 1 Convention Center will begin in 2017. The new building will be sited on the southeastern side of the fairground property, along Ganson Street and the Grand River here.
“We chose the future location of the American 1 Convention Center in an effort to help renew the former glory of the Grand River,” said American 1 Credit union Board Chairman Philip E. Hoffman. “With the river running along the eastern border of the fairgrounds, it was the obvious choice for a beautiful new convention center building.”
The new building will feature a large expo space that can be sectioned off for smaller events. Additional rooms will be able accommodate conferences with multiple sessions. The facility will also include a full kitchen for catering services. It will be the largest, purpose-built convention space available in Jackson County, the CU said.
“While many credit unions were established by large industries and corporations, American 1 was started by our community and that is where we continue to be rooted. When our community is successful, we’re successful,” said American 1 Credit Union President and CEO David Puckett.