Venues · Rigging and LED
KBHCCD Dallas: rigging, power and load-in during construction
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas is at 650 S Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas. Its Event Resource Guide, effective March 10, 2026, extends the contractual conditions.
Can the rigging design remain unchanged during expansion?
Obtain drawings and available access for the contracted dates. Page 21 warns that halls D, E and F and ballrooms A and D go out of service as construction progresses; it does not state they are all closed simultaneously. Freeman Audio Visual exclusively provides chain hoists, trusses, associated lifts and production/special-event rigging labor; it oversees general exhibition installations under specific guidelines.
Submit points, complete weights and reactions to Freeman AV and the venue. Exclusive rigging does not make all AV exclusive. If the room changes, do not transfer its drawing: obtain CAD and limits for the new space and hold the revised design until accepted.
What differs between Hall C, lobbies and ballrooms?
The main exhibit floor lists 350 lb/ft² distributed load; lobbies generally 100 lb/ft²; ballrooms and Parking Garage Level G, 150 lb/ft². Weighted exhibits require advance approval in lobbies and are prohibited in Lobby C. Objects over 1,500 lb in common/lobby areas and displays over 20,000 lb anywhere require the specified approvals. Distributed loads are not wheel or support ratings.
Choose electrical and utility providers from the approved list. Hall C’s westernmost floor-pocket row no longer supplies water or compressed air; electricity and drainage remain available according to page 24. Mark each service on the plan, confirm voltage, phases, capacity and connection, and relocate the booth if its point cannot provide the ordered service.
When are layouts and effects submitted?
Submit floorplans to the Event Manager at least 45 days before move-in: KBHCCD approves first and submits them to Dallas Fire-Rescue. Final DFR approval must be secured at least 15 days before first move-in. Show actual staging, LED, structures, access and egress; changes require renewed review.
Pyrotechnics require individual venue and Fire Marshal acceptance, a permit and standby DFR personnel; the guide requests contact at least 45 days before the event. For lasers and other effects, confirm the specific permit mentioned in the FAQ. Without effect authorization, retain operation without emission.
Frequently asked questions
Is an organizer badge enough for load-in access?
The guide requires ESCA and/or WIS credentials for contractors, including AV and production, and daily check-in. Confirm the procedure with Security and the organizer before dispatching crew; a contract alone does not establish access.
Official documentation
Confirm the revision and appendices for the contracted space. Published data do not establish installation acceptance or replace permits or inspections.