In 2004 and 2008, Illinois Republicans held their Conventions downstate. For the 2012 Illinois Republican State Convention on June 8-9, the thinking was to change locations and find a suitable Chicagoland meeting facility. The wish list included a state-of-the-art facility, an easily accessible location, sufficient nearby hotel rooms and a cooperative staff.
"We looked at Chicago locations and at other suburban locations but the Tinley Park Convention Center just stood out," said Jonathan Blessing, Executive Director of the Illinois Republican Party. "It is brand-spanking new with everything we wanted."
"The facility is beautiful," commented Blessing. With the Center's recent expansion and renovation, a commodious concourse bathed in natural light was added, along with elegant stone architectural accents and a variety of dramatic water features. The décor and ambiance are well-suited to the type of atmosphere needed for the GOP Convention.
Key to this site's selection was geography. The Party rejected facilities in Chicago and the Northwest suburbs as they did not want downstate delegates to be forced to drive another hour or more. "The Tinley Park Convention Center's location is just perfect for us. It's right off I-80 and every other major expressway connects to I-80." Delegates will find the drive very straightforward and the Center effortless to arrive at after exiting I-80. And a bonus – there are 1,500 free parking spots on the Center grounds.
With about 1,000 Convention participants, hotel space was a very significant concern as well. "There is a hotel attached to the Center," said Blessing. "Most of our guests will stay right there, on the premises. There are no issues with housing for our delegates and their guests." With 202 connected rooms, including 10 suites and 668 additional rooms on Tinley Park's hotel campus, all overnight requirements are easily accommodated.
Blessing also praises the Convention Center staff. "Tinley Park Convention Center professionals have been tremendous; they rolled out the red carpet for us. They are very happy to have us there and have done everything they could for us. It's a very good feeling working with them."
For Blessing and the Illinois Republican Party, the Tinley Park Convention Center has fulfilled every item on that wish list.
Contacts:
Tinley Park Convention Center
Daniel Fitzgerald, 708-342-5485
d.fitzgerald@tphicc.com
