OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) – Guests visiting the World Equestrian Center will have some new venues to explore next year.

Leaders at WEC say construction is underway for two new buildings: an event center and a shopping venue.

The 180,000 square foot building, called The Event Center at WEC, will include four dining options, 80,000 square feet for meeting space, and the largest ballroom in Marion County.

Jeremy Gow, Senior Director of Food and Beverage Operations at WEC, says this new addition will improve guest experiences.

“This continues to improve the experience for our guests because it gives them more options. The event center’s going to have some great new concepts that we’re going to be adding that we don’t have here at the World Equestrian Center from a cuisine’s perspective,” said Gow.

Gow says the event center is slated to open September 2025, providing roughly 300 jobs and growth opportunities in Ocala.

Crews are also building an 80,000 square foot shopping center with room for nearly 30 retailers, called The Shoppes Off 80th.

“We’re continuing to try to add new offerings for our guests that welcome all different types of guests across the property,” said Gow. “Whether that be different price points and different amenities inside of a hotel, or whether it be different food or beverage offerings and price points or experiences, as we do different events across property.”

Resident Pamela Grey says it’s been exciting to see WEC grow over the years, but once construction is completed, hopes leaders consider transportation around the property.

“It is a huge area if you’re just walking, so one thing they might want to think about is how to move people more quickly from one part of the equestrian center to another and make it fun,” said Grey.

Earlier this year, The Riding Academy Hotel opened its doors for guests in March.

Leaders at WEC say there’s more room to expand for other projects.

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