Some facts about the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre expansion project, slated to open in 2008.

Cost: $535 million ($222.5 million each from federal and provincial governments, with the tourism industry covering the remaining $90 million).

Size: 1.1 million square feet, or 30 NHL hockey rinks. If you stood it up straight, the project would be 75 stories high.

Bling-bling factor: Floor-to-ceiling glass on all sides.

West Coast factor: Will feature B.C. wood, both structurally and for decor.

Utility factor: Will be home to Olympic media centre in 2010.

© The Vancouver Sun 2004