Plans to revitalize the long-dormant Astrodome have taken a significant step forward, as the Astrodome Conservancy unveiled its ambitious proposal, coined “Vision Astrodome.” The design envisions the former sports arena turned into a 450,000-square-foot multi-use space, which will include commercial real estate and a public events arena. The estimated cost of the project stands at around $1 billion. Renderings released by the conservancy reveal a vision of the iconic structure transformed into a bustling mixed-use development complete with offices, hotels, and entertainment spaces, according to a KHOU report.
The response to the extensive redevelopment plan has been mixed. RodeoHouston, a major user of nearby facilities, has raised concerns about the alignment of the conservancy’s proposal with its own plans. In a statement, Rodeo officials noted their ongoing collaboration with the Houston Texans and the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation (HCSCC), highlighting the need to address critical facility issues in the buildings they currently use, "The proposed plan by the Astrodome Conservancy does not align with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s strategic vision and operational requirements," RodeoHouston said, articulating the necessity for considerable investment in NRG Park's existing facilities, as per KHOU report.
In response to potential opposition, the conservancy has begun seeking public support by encouraging individuals to sign a petition and contact local leaders. The decision regarding the Astrodome's future will ultimately be made by the Harris County commissioners. The conservancy has raised over $3 million in private funding to support the project, which aims to generate income while preserving the structure as described in a Click2Houston. Board member Shawn Stephens expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential economic and cultural benefits: “I think it’s incredibly viable. I think it brings tourism dollars to Houston. I think it brings investment dollars to Houston. And I think it brings historic tax credits to Houston and Harris County that didn’t exist with any prior plan.”
The conservancy's plans aim to preserve the original character of the Astrodome while creating a climate-controlled environment that could function as a city within the dome, appealing to Houston residents and visitors. A survey showed that 86 percent of respondents supported preserving the Astrodome. The proposal will now be presented to the County and Commissioners for approval, and it remains to be seen how the public support will influence the necessary political and financial backing.