The cost of reviving Houston’s Astrodome has risen sharply, according to a new study commissioned by the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation (HCSCC). The analysis estimates that bringing the stadium back to basic operational functionality would require more than $752 million. In contrast, demolishing the structure would cost about $55 million, which includes tearing down the above-ground portions and removing debris but leaves the below-grade structure for future consideration.
“These cost estimates illustrate that it will not be financially feasible for Harris County to renovate the Astrodome without significant private investment,” interim County Administrator Jesse Dickerman said in a statement.
The timing of this study coincides with ongoing lease negotiations at NRG Park involving the Houston Texans and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Both organizations have agreements set to expire in 2032, and decisions about the Astrodome’s future are central to these talks. However, county officials have not provided a timeline for any final decision.
Kirksey Architecture, based in Houston, prepared the analysis. Its scope was expanded last November, leading to delays beyond its initial early-2025 delivery date. The expansion drew criticism from the Astrodome Conservancy, a nonprofit advocating for repurposing the stadium. The organization criticized county officials for spending additional public funds on demolition scenarios and argued that as a protected Texas landmark, the Dome deserves a more ambitious reuse strategy.
The conservancy recently proposed an $840 million plan to convert the Astrodome into a mixed-use complex featuring an arena, retail space, and other facilities within its existing shell. This vision relies on a public-private partnership: $270 million in public funding would support arena construction while roughly $570 million would come from private sources for commercial elements. According to the group, historic tax credits could offset up to 45 percent of total costs.
A University of Houston survey conducted last summer found that 62 percent of Harris County voters support using public funds as part of a public-private partnership aimed at redeveloping the Astrodome into an entertainment and mixed-use destination.
Despite this apparent public backing, key stakeholders have yet to endorse the conservancy’s proposal. Neither HCSCC nor representatives from the Texans or Rodeo Houston have offered support; Rodeo Houston has expressed skepticism about investing in Dome redevelopment. CEO Chris Boleman stated that NRG Park’s broader needs amount to “a $1 billion problem” extending beyond just the Astrodome and noted that his organization does not use the facility.
