ST. CHARLES, Mo. —  Ameristar Casino Resort Spa in St. Charles announced an expansion project Wednesday to become one of the largest convention centers in the St. Louis area, officials say.

Plans include adding 43,000 square feet of meeting and event space, which would triple the current size. The expansion project is expected to be finished next fall.

Upgrades to the 397 hotel rooms also are underway with completion set for later this year, according to a press release.

Ameristar has debuted new amenities over the past two years, such as Copper Whisk, Roll In & Out and Salted Lime. Coming soon is an upgraded VIP lounge experience.

“We have been proud to serve the St. Charles and greater St. Louis communities for 30 years now, and we want to make certain that we continue to offer our guests a best-in-class experience,” Ward Shaw, executive vice president of operations for Boyd Gaming.

“Through these investments, our goal is to ensure that Ameristar remains a unique and appealing destination for existing and new guests alike and continues to draw more visitors to the St. Charles community.”

On the horizon, Ameristar plans to replace Amerisports Bar & Grill with a modern gastropub and sports bar for next year, in addition to a rebranding of its current steakhouse concept.