Houston officials have announced a $1 billion expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center, aiming to stimulate retail and hospitality growth in the city. The project is expected to generate $20 billion in local economic activity over a decade, according to a study commissioned by Houston First and reported by the Houston Business Journal.
The renovation will add 700,000 square feet to the convention center. It also includes plans for an outdoor plaza spanning 100,000 square feet, which will serve as part of a broader entertainment district linked with venues like Toyota Center and Daikin Park. The updated design features timber finishes and rooftop greenery, while reconnecting downtown’s east side through a new promenade.
The first phase is scheduled for completion by mid-2028, aligning with the timing of the Republican National Convention. A study conducted by Hunden Partners estimates that the redevelopment could increase meetings and conventions in Houston by 62 percent and bring an additional 337,000 hotel room nights annually to the central business district. This could raise downtown hotel occupancy rates by nearly five percent if another convention hotel is built as recommended.
Houston First has enlisted several major firms for this project: Hines as development manager, Populous as architect, and Gilbane-Flintco JV leading construction. Funding comes from state legislation passed in 2023 that redirects future hotel-occupancy tax revenue without introducing new local taxes—a model similar to those used in Dallas and Fort Worth.
Mayor John Whitmire described the expansion as “a once-in-a-generation play to reinforce Houston’s standing as a ‘top-tier convention city’ and kickstart fresh investment in restaurants, retail and entertainment in the East End.” He noted that while other Texas cities such as Dallas and Austin are closing their convention centers for renovations, Houston’s facility will remain operational throughout construction.
Despite facing competition from other cities during a period when the global events industry is projected to nearly double by 2032, proponents believe that if projections are met—$20.6 billion in new spending on a $1 billion investment—the move may prove advantageous for Houston’s real estate sector.
