The Toyota Center in Downtown Houston is set for a $180 million renovation, with work scheduled to begin this summer after the NBA season and conclude by fall 2027, according to an announcement on Apr. 9. The upgrade comes as the city prepares to host the Republican National Convention in 2028.
City officials and the Houston Rockets said the project will include a new 20,000-square-foot glass atrium at 1510 Polk Street. This addition aims to enhance the arena’s street presence and provide a covered outdoor gathering space. Mayor John Whitmire said that local taxpayers will not be responsible for funding, stating that “the project will completely transform the arena” without using local tax dollars.
Funding for the renovation includes approximately $95 million from a state grant related to convention readiness. The remaining costs will be covered by Rockets owner and U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta through his sports and entertainment company.
Other improvements include expanded luxury suites, a larger team store with more checkout capacity, and a new lounge for season ticket holders covering nearly 5,000 square feet. Entrances are being redesigned for better sightlines into the arena bowl, while digital displays and flexible event spaces are intended to increase visitor engagement.
The former practice facility inside Toyota Center will be converted to accommodate the WNBA’s returning Houston Comets franchise, which is expected to resume play in 2027 following Fertitta’s acquisition of the Connecticut Sun earlier this year.
An independent study last year estimated over $635 million would be needed for maintenance at Toyota Center over two decades. Recent upgrades have addressed some of these needs but this renovation represents a major update.
