Construction of the new Convention Center in Texarkana, Texas is nearing completion, as crews prep for the opening next week. Officials say the 25,000 square foot facility is already attracting business with bookings for conventions, weddings and family reunions through 2014.

The center has a 12,000 square foot ballroom, two meeting rooms, and a patio and pavilion for outdoor events. And, the attached Hilton Garden Inn has 154 rooms, a pool and restaurant. All are options officials say, will help boost the local economy.

"It's bringing a lot of different people to the area," said Director of Sales, Melanie Holland. "They're not only going to be staying with our hotel, there are hotels in the area they'll be staying with. That's something we haven't been able to do before here in our community so we're very excited to house a variety of different groups."

The project is a partnership between the city of Texarkana, Texas and the Daugherty Property Group. It cost $24 million, funded through hotel taxes and took a year and a half to complete.The facility opens October 4th.