Residents of Houston's East End are concerned about the proposed expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center, particularly the potential closure of Polk Street, an important route for local travel. Council member Joaquin Martinez stated, "We will work with our neighbors to address challenges and any negative near-term effects." Houston First Corporation has delayed releasing more details on the expansion until March 6. Opponent Clay Dippel said, "That street belongs to the city. It's a big deal to the city to give to a private corporation," as reported by KHOU.
Austin has announced a $1.6 billion plan to renovate the Austin Convention Center, with demolition set to begin in April after South by Southwest. The project is scheduled to reopen in 2029. ACC Assistant Director Katy Zamesnik stated, "We will no longer be a barrier," and "We will be a gateway that transforms the southeast corner [of downtown] into what we hope will be a bustling community hub." The renovation will be funded by local lodging and convention revenues and is expected to create over 1,600 new jobs, with improved access through the reopening of Second and Third streets, according to Community Impact.
In Houston, residents of the East End have reported a lack of communication from Houston First Corporation. In Austin, officials have been actively providing updates to nearby residents and businesses through email newsletters and social media. Derick Hackett, a convention center spokesperson, stated that those "living, commuting or working" within a mile of the center receive real-time street closure updates. Austin’s new net-zero carbon convention center project aims to boost the city’s economy and improve its convention center ranking from 61st to the mid-30s in the U.S. "This investment will create an active, modern, efficient and dynamic space that strengthens Austin’s position as a premier event destination while driving long-term benefits for local businesses and the economy for years to come," said Visit Austin President and CEO Tom Noonan, as stated by Community Impact.
