ASM Global reported to the Worcester City Civic Center Commission on May 29 that the venue has seen a busy graduation season and strong summer bookings but that several security and IT issues require attention and capital investment.

An ASM Global representative briefed commissioners that nine colleges held graduation ceremonies at the venue over the last month, with about 7,500 graduates and an estimated 54,000 total attendees across those events. "The sound system has been terrific," the ASM Global representative said, adding that the upgraded audio made graduations and other events easier to run.

The company's operations and finance update showed increases in concessions and catering revenue, including $140,000 in catering for a recent conference and $200,000 for a MassDOT event. ASM Global also reported overall occupancy improvements; staff said March 2025 occupancy for the convention center was 54%, up from 44% the prior year.

Security and safety issues

ASM Global reported multiple walk-through metal detectors are inoperative and that replacement or repair costs and new software may exceed repair costs. The representative said the company is obtaining pricing and expects corporate security to recommend metal detection coverage for both buildings going forward. The representative also said the company has scheduled a Department of Homeland Security assessment in June to review physical-security measures and cybersecurity exposure.

Network and systems

Matt and ASM Global staff described persistent problems with new Cisco UCS network equipment installed in the facility's MDF/IDF rooms. Peter, ASM Global's IT manager (referred to in the meeting), performed temperature and decibel measurements and reported excessive noise and heat when the new gear is powered on. Matt said Cisco acknowledged the noise problem and that city staff had asked Cisco for a remediation plan; staff said they had asked Cisco for a scheduled resolution after a meeting and expected an update.

Other operational items

ASM Global said the digital-signage project attracted multiple bidders and that staff expect LED and concourse signage replacements this summer. The company reported several upcoming events that are contributing to a busier-than-usual summer season, including concerts, conventions and an expanded series of rehearsals for touring acts.

What commissioners asked and what comes next

Commissioners asked whether corporate procurement rules apply to ASM Global spending in the building; the ASM Global representative said that ASM Global's operating expenditures for the facility are handled through the operator and do not always go through municipal procurement. At least one commissioner asked staff to verify that approach with the city's law department.

ASM Global said it will provide procurement pricing for metal detectors and proceed with the planned Homeland Security assessment in June; staff said they will press Cisco for a remediation plan and, if necessary, escalate as a significant city customer.

The commission's next meeting is scheduled for June 26 at 8 a.m.