The Mayor of Gary says the city has been selected by the Lake County Board of Commissioners to be the location of the new Lake County Convention Center.

The 145 thousand square foot convention center will be located near the Hard Rock Casino along I-80 between I-294 and I-65.

Officials say the project will be funded entirely through gaming taxes, state matching funds established by Senate Bill 434, and a $30 million commitment over 20 years from Hard Rock.

The City is hoping the center will attract large-scale conferences, trade shows and premier events from around the country. Construction will begin later this year.