Houston's Convention Center Gears Up for 500K SF Expansion Under Hines

Houston First Corp. has appointed Hines, a renowned global real estate developer based in Houston, to spearhead the significant expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) and its surrounding district. The goal is to elevate Houston’s standing as a premier convention destination, competing with established cities like Las Vegas, Orlando, and Chicago.

Plans for Expansion and Modernization

The 37-year-old convention center will see an addition of 500,000 square feet to its southern side, enhancing the current 1.8 million square feet structure. This expansion will include a new skybridge connecting to the Toyota Center, as well as new restaurants, retail spaces, and other amenities designed to boost pedestrian traffic and activate the area around the center.

Vision for a Tier 1 Convention City

Michael Heckman, CEO of Houston First, emphasized the importance of this project in transforming the eastern edge of downtown Houston. The expansion is seen as a crucial step in maintaining Houston’s status as a Tier 1 convention city for the foreseeable future.

Funding Through Hotel Occupancy Taxes

The entire project will be financed through hotel occupancy taxes, made possible by legislation passed last year that allows up to $2 billion in such taxes to be allocated for significant developments like this one.

Initial Focus and Future Goals

The first phase of the project will focus on creating new meeting spaces south of the current facility, improving pedestrian and vehicular infrastructure in collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation, and setting the stage for future entertainment and development projects. This phase is slated to begin next year.

Competing on a National Stage

Once completed, the GRB will encompass approximately 2.5 million square feet, bringing it to just over half the size of the Las Vegas Convention Center, which holds the title of the top trade show destination in North America. Currently, Houston’s GRB ranks 11th, trailing behind top venues like Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center and Chicago’s McCormick Place.