Houston is moving forward with a $1 billion expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center, a project that city officials and consultants say could generate $20 billion in economic activity over the next decade. The plans include adding 700,000 square feet to the convention center, redesigning its facade with timber finishes and rooftop greenery, and creating a promenade to reconnect the building with downtown’s east side.
A new 100,000-square-foot outdoor plaza is also planned as part of a broader convention campus that will link to an entertainment district featuring venues such as Toyota Center and Daikin Park. The first phase of construction is expected to finish by mid-2028, ahead of the Republican National Convention.
According to a study conducted by Hunden Partners for Houston First—the city’s convention and tourism agency—the redevelopment could increase citywide meetings and conventions by 62 percent. It is also projected to add 337,000 hotel room nights annually in Houston’s central business district. The report suggests this could raise downtown hotel occupancy rates by nearly five percent if another convention hotel is built.
Houston First has selected Hines as development manager, Populous as architect, and Gilbane-Flintco JV as construction lead for the project. Funding comes from a state law passed in 2023 that redirects future hotel-occupancy tax revenue toward such projects without raising local taxes—a strategy also adopted by 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 like Dallas and Austin will close their convention centers during renovations, Houston’s facility will remain open throughout construction.
The global events industry is anticipated to nearly double in size by 2032. Despite competition from other cities, officials believe that if projections are met—$20.6 billion generated from a $1 billion investment—Houston’s move may be advantageous for its real estate market.
