The City of Fort Worth has marked a significant milestone in its efforts to enhance and modernize the Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC). This week, city officials and representatives of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) gathered to celebrate the completion of renovations to the livestock barns, which now boast updated amenities such as improved lighting, air ventilation, and facilities for washing livestock. According to the City of Fort Worth News, Mayor Mattie Parker and the Stock Show General Manager Matt Carter spoke at the event, pointing out the excitement for the upcoming Stock Show and the year-round benefits the refurbished facilities will offer.
One of the standout features of the remodeled barns is their "flat floor" design, allowing for a wide range of uses, from trade shows to banquets, beyond their primary purpose of housing livestock. Speaking to the crowd, that located the new Arena 1 next to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and Dickies Arena, FWSSR officials highlighted the ability to increase stalling space for sheep, goat, and swine exhibitors by 41% with the new addition.
Underpinning the need for renovation is the remarkable growth of equine organizations that lease the WRMC for shows and competitions. Mayor Parker told City News that without the need to expand the footprint of the structures, these groups now have access to additional stalling capacity and a new climate-controlled exercise arena that serves their needs outside of the Stock Show months.
The financial engine behind these projects is a public-private partnership, with FWSSR and the City of Fort Worth equally sharing the $40 million price tag for the current phase. This collaboration has paved the way for a significant increase in economic impact, which already surpasses $217 million in direct activity, the mayor was quoted as saying at the ceremony, which filled an additional building — the new Arena 1.
Looking ahead, "We’re already working on the conceptual design of Phase Four, which will provide important upgrades to Cattle Barns 3 and 4," said Stock Show Chairman Philip Williamson, as reported by the City of Fort Worth. The long-term vision shared by both the Stock Show and the City manifests a commitment of $69.24 million towards improving these facilities through the initial three phases.
The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo invites attendees to gear up for a “Hustle and Show” experience in 2025. Beyond the competitive events, the festivity promises a convivial atmosphere with food, shopping, live music, and a range of family-friendly activities, as it aims to attract more than 1.2 million visitors from around the globe. Anticipation builds for January 17 through February 8, when the city will come alive with the legacy and culture of the FWSSR.
