Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, has announced plans for approximately $40 million in enhancements at Block 21, a mixed-use complex in downtown Austin that is home to the W Austin Hotel and Residences and ACL Live at the Moody Theater.
Renovations on the W Austin entrance, public spaces, and food and beverage amenities begin this week. The renovated spaces will highlight W Austin’s connection to ACL Live and will celebrate Austin’s live music culture.
At ACL Live, a new 2,060-square-foot terrace enclosure over the existing PNC Plaza will create a versatile private event space designed to serve both ACL Live and W Austin. The terrace enclosure follows ACL Live guest enhancements completed earlier this summer, including a dedicated retail area and upgraded food and beverage offerings.
“When we purchased Block 21, we saw an opportunity to strengthen its connection to Austin’s rich music culture and to, over time, create a music-centric hub in the heart of downtown,” said Ryman's Mark Fioravanti. This investment is the first step in our plans to enhance the guest experience across Block 21 and provide more opportunities for locals, residents and music fans to enjoy W Austin’s amenities.”
The company expects the public space enhancements at W Austin and ACL Live to be complete by summer 2024. The guest room renovation is expected to be complete by fall 2024. Chase Construction Group is the general contractor for the project and Blur Workshop is the architect. W Austin and ACL Live will remain open throughout the refurbishment period.
Completed in 2010, 37-story Block 21 is a shopping and cultural center that encompasses a block of downtown Austin's Second Street District and includes the W Austin, Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater, 40,000 square feet of offices, and 18,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.
