WE-KO-PA CONFERENCE CENTER TO GET UPGRADED CARPETS
By Harrison J. Bahe
On August 6, 2026, this reporter was invited into the ballroom at the We-Ko-Pa Casino & Resort, where a major renovation project is currently underway. After serving guests for the past 22 years, the ballroom’s original carpet is being removed to make way for a brand-new design. The renovation encompasses the entire 14,600-square-foot ballroom, six surrounding conference rooms, and the three primary lobbies that connect the conference center.
According to Harold Baugus, the General Manager of the We-Ko-Pa Casino & Resort, replacing the carpet has been long overdue. While carpeting in most resorts is typically replaced every 5 years, the ballroom’s original flooring has remained in place for more than two decades.
“This carpet has been utilized for the past 22 years, but it’s run its course,” Baugus said. “We’ve made our money on it.”
As Baugus guided this reporter through the ballroom, crews had already begun the early stages of demolition. Large rolls of worn carpet were stacked throughout the room.
The renovation is also intended to attract new clientele. “When they come in and they see our building is upgraded, they see where we are putting money into it.” Baugus said of potential new clientele.
The ballroom and conference center regularly host weddings, conventions, corporate meetings, banquets, and community gatherings, bringing hundreds if not thousands of visitors through the resort each year. Many of those guests also spend time enjoying the casino, restaurants, and other amenities, making it essential to keep these money-making spaces modern and inviting.
The new carpet was carefully designed to mirror the architecture and color themes found in the circular designs on the atrium floor, which represents Montezuma’s Well, to establish a visual transition between the resort and conference center. The pattern of the new carpet features flowing blue tones intended to resemble moving water.
The renovation is expected to take approximately 10 days, with completion scheduled for August 19, 2026. The upgraded ballroom will be ready in time for several upcoming events already planned at the conference center.
