Kentucky’s Newest Conference Center to Open This Summer
Surrounded by nature, coupled with small-town charm and the latest COVID safety measures, the Shelbyville Conference Center is set to open in August. To be managed by ShelbyKY Tourism, the Center’s location (219 7th St.) is central to not only Shelbyville’s historic downtown and scenic parks system, it is less than an hour from the state’s largest cities – Louisville and Lexington.
With three historic silos as visual centerpieces, the creation of Shelbyville Conference Center demonstrates the partnership of the City of Shelbyville, Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative and ShelbyKY Tourism. Three Kentucky-based banks – Citizens Union Bank, Commonwealth Bank & Trust and Republic Bank – are the named sponsors of the Center’s large meeting rooms. “The Shelbyville Conference and Welcome Center is over 20 years in the making and is a true representation of the dedication and spirit of Shelbyville’s residents and businesses” says Shelbyville Mayor David Eaton. “Constructing the Conference Center in Shelbyville is a milestone for our city and something that everyone in the community can look forward to celebrating.”
Including state-of-the-art capabilities for hosting in-person and hybrid events, the Conference Center and Welcome Center offers more than 16,000 square feet of space spread over one floor. Award-winning, Kentucky-based architectural and interior design firm EOP Architects led the Center’s design, “Everyone involved in this project set out to create a jewel box for the city. We look forward to celebrating the realization of that goal. The Shelbyville Conference Center will make a positive impact in the community by providing one of largest venues to host events in the county. For many first-time visitors to the city, this will be their first stop. We wanted to make sure this first impression celebrated the great regional character of the local landscape and its people, while also inspiring local residents on a daily basis,” says EOP Architects Associate Jason Dunn, AIA, LEED AP.
Decorated in contemporary shades of gray and brown with stone accents, an equine theme is used throughout the Center to symbolize Shelby County’s designation as the American Saddlebred Capital of the World. The airy, light-filled space can seat 500 people banquet-style or can be broken into three smaller rooms. There is a rentable outdoor patio and pre-function space strategically designed for smaller gatherings. An on-site prep kitchen enables groups to work with the caterer of their choice.
The ShelbyKY Tourism team (Shelbyville/Simpsonville/Shelby County) will manage operations of and work from the Center. “The Shelbyville Conference Center’s trailside location, historic silos and convenient downtown location create the foundation for exploring ShelbyKY and hosting experience-driven meetings and events,” suggests ShelbyKY Tourism President/CEO Chenelle McGee. “The space is well suited for planners and presenters seeking a welcoming environment for meetings and conferences. It is also poised to promote new growth and drive economic impact throughout Shelby County.”
For details on reserving the Shelbyville Conference Center, please visit https://www.visitshelbyky.com/conference-center/, email assistant@visitshelbyky.com or call 502.633.6388.
