"As California re-opens in the next few weeks and our economy continues to come back, being here today marks the start of a new era for our region culturally and economically," SAFE President/CEO Dave Roughton said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday. "This moment marks the culmination of the hard work of many dedicated Sacramentans wanting the very best for our region and having tremendous persistence and resilience to make Sacramento a world-class city that attracts and delights people who come from all over to see what our region has to offer."

SAFE President/CEO Dave Roughton (left) and Board Chair Terrance Tremelling.

The SAFE Credit Union Convention Center alone is expected to host about 370 events annually, which will attract nearly 900,000 people and generate more than $121 million for the local and regional economy, according to the credit union.

The performing arts center will host more than 140 performances that are expected to attract about 300,000 people for Broadway, ballet, choral and philharmonic shows, and speakers' series.

The 15,000-square-foot plaza set to open in the fall will feature new walkways to provide easy access to the waterfront and midtown.

"SAFE has always focused on supporting our communities and has many opportunities to do so," SAFE Credit Union Board Chair Terrance Tremelling said. "To see this venue open to the public and professing our commitment for 25 years is a testament to that effort in a long-term way. It is with pride that SAFE welcomes the first of many years of enjoyment and entertainment for the Sacramento community."

As part of the naming rights deal, SAFE's 241,000 members will have access to special offers and early ticket sales for select events, and the credit union will also operate ATMs throughout the district.