#United States #Houston #Houston First Corporation #GRB Expansion #John Whitmire

Major Transformation for East Downtown Houston

In an exciting move to rejuvenate East Downtown, Mayor John Whitmire along with Houston First Corporation has introduced a groundbreaking master plan designed to greatly enhance the city’s East End. The ambitious initiative aims to establish a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly convention and entertainment district that stands out in the nation.

Phase One: Expansion Plans

The initial phase of this ambitious project will see the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) expanded by a whopping 700,000 square feet. This expansion aims to seamlessly integrate the convention center with the nearby Toyota Center via a new 100,000-square-foot pedestrian plaza. The intent is to foster connectivity among the various points of interest and amenities in the area while promoting new public spaces that will embody the spirit of community engagement.

Mayor Whitmire expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This project is truly transformative for downtown Houston, a lasting legacy that will solidify our position as a top-tier convention and entertainment destination. Most importantly, we are creating a space that will build community, foster connection, and shape the future of Houston."

The funding for this visionary project stems from Senate Bill 1057, signed into law in 2023, which will utilize an expected $2 billion from the state's Hotel Occupancy Tax revenue generated within a three-mile radius around the GRB, securing a financing model that alleviates the tax burden from local residents.

An Entertainment Hub on the Rise

Unlike any other city, Houston boasts three major sports venues located close to its convention center, making this project a perfect catalyst for new developments that aim to transform underdeveloped lots into thriving hubs filled with entertainment, dining, and community activities.

Michael Heckman, President, and CEO of Houston First emphasized the importance of remaining competitive, stating, "It is imperative for us to stay competitive and meet the needs of our meetings and convention customers ... This project will not only accomplish that but will establish a gathering space that will be the epicenter for entertainment, sports, and city-wide events, accentuating our ability to capitalize on Houston's unique offerings."

Design and Construction Highlights

The GRB Houston South is poised to be a state-of-the-art facility designed to attract leading industry events, redefining it as the most innovative convention space in North America. The expansion will feature:

• - Two exhibition halls that combine for a total of 150,000 square feet,
• - A 50,000-square-foot multipurpose hall that opens directly to the new Central Plaza, creating opportunities for indoor/outdoor flexibility,
• - An atrium flex hall spanning 25,000 square feet,
• - Compressive contiguous exhibit space measuring 225,000 square feet,
• - The largest ballroom in Texas, featuring a space between 60,000 to 80,000 square feet with views of the downtown skyline,
• - Ground-level spaces allocated for retail and restaurant services,
• - An impressive central atrium filled with natural light that enhances the guest experience.

The expanded design will blend natural inspiration drawn from Houston's bayous and prairies, showcasing tranquil tones and infusing warmth through wood accents and vegetation. Importantly, the structure will use low-carbon materials, integrate high-efficiency systems, and feature a living roof, reinforcing Houston's commitment to sustainability.

Schedule and Future Phases

The opening of GRB Houston South is set for May 2028, with construction managed in phases to maintain full operations during development. The entire project is expected to reach completion by 2038. Alongside the Houston First Corporation, the development team includes Hines, Populous, Jacobs Advance Planning Group, and Gilbane | Flintco.

The GRB has been a vital beacon of economic activity and community interaction since its inception in 1987. With past expansions executed in 2003 and major renovations in 2016, the venue has continually evolved to meet the increasing demands of the community and industry alike. Hosting over 250 events a year and generating considerable tourism revenue, the GRB is ready to embrace its next chapter.

The Legacy of East Downtown Houston

As articulated by Heckman, "This is a generational opportunity for Houston and will ensure that we remain a tier-one convention city for decades to come." The vision shared by Mayor Whitmire and the Houston First Corporation not only aims at immediate growth but also plans for sustainable expansion that enriches the community fabric for future generations to come.