The George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) is set to undergo a major transformation that will reimagine downtown Houston into a pedestrian-friendly convention and entertainment district.  Mayor John Whitmire and Houston First Corporation recently unveiled a master plan for the project, marking the first substantial renovation since 2016, which opened the building to Discovery Green and created the Avenida Houston Plaza.   The $2 billion project aims to bolster Houston’s position as a global hub for sports, entertainment and tourism, an especially timely investment as the city prepares to host FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 and the Republican National Convention in 2028.   Phase One  Click to expand The first phase of development includes a 700,000-square-foot building, GRB Houston South, which will serve as a key connector between downtown and Houston’s East End. The building will include two exhibit halls, a multipurpose hall opening to the new Central Plaza, an atrium flex hall, ground-level retail and dining spaces and what is set to be the largest ballroom in Texas.  Click to expand Additionally, the Avenida Plaza will be extended south to connect Discovery Green with the new Central Plaza, creating an expanded gathering space for large-scale events and community activities.  “This project is truly transformative for downtown Houston, a lasting legacy that will solidify our position as a top-tier convention and entertainment destination,” said Mayor Whitmire in a press release. “Most importantly, we are creating a space that will build community, foster connection, and shape the future of Houston.”  Click to expand The project's design is inspired by Houston’s bayous and natural prairie landscape. Along with its nature-inspired elements, the building will use eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, including rainwater collection and water-saving features, to minimize its environmental impact and strengthen the city's sustainability efforts.  The groundbreaking project will be funded by a portion of the state’s hotel tax revenue, made possible by Senate Bill 1057, which passed in 2023.  The Need for Expanded Infrastructure  With Houston’s hospitality and tourism industry rapidly expanding, the demand for expanded infrastructure has never been greater. In 2024, the city welcomed more than 54 million visitors, an increase of six percent from 2023 and nearly 10 percent since 2019, according to Houston First.  Click to expand “It is imperative for us to stay competitive and meet the needs of our meetings and convention customers,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First, in the same release. “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.”  GRB Houston South is scheduled to open in May 2028, with the full project expected to be completed by 2038.  Discover more about living in Houston. 

Texas has secured its 13th consecutive Governor's Cup for 2024, as awarded by Site Selection Magazine. This accolade recognizes the state with the highest number of qualified capital investment projects, underscoring Texas's sustained appeal to businesses and investors alike. Houston remains a key player in this success story, ranking third among U.S. metropolitan areas for attracting new business ventures.   The Governor's Cup evaluates states based on private-sector projects that meet specific criteria: a minimum investment of $1 million, the creation of 20 or more jobs or new construction spanning at least 20,000 square feet. In 2024, Texas reported an impressive 1,368 such projects, marking an increase of 114 from the previous year and doubling the count of the second-place state, Illinois, which logged 664 projects.   The Houston region’s 435 projects secured the third spot among top U.S. metros for attracting new business, an uptick from 413 projects in 2022.  “We are excited to see for the 13th consecutive year Texas continues to lead the U.S. in economic growth and Houston is helping lead the way as a preferred global destination for new jobs and capital investment.” Greater Houston Partnership Senior Vice President of Economic Development Craig Rhodes said. “Companies continue to recognize the overall ease of doing business in the Houston region.  We know speed to market is critical in today’s economy and Houston has all the right ingredients; quality workforce, robust infrastructure, and a wealth of real estate options to help companies succeed.”    Apple’s $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing in Houston and Tesla’s expansion to Waller County earmark the region’s growing role in advanced manufacturing, digital technology and innovation. These moves also reflect a broader trend of tech companies relocating or expanding in Texas.  Factors such as a friendlier tax and regulatory environment and a burgeoning talent pool have made Texas, and Houston in particular, attractive destinations for tech giants seeking growth and operational efficiency.   To continue this economic growth, Governor Greg Abbott has unveiled a new five-year strategic plan. This economic plan is designed to attract large, capital-intensive projects in critical sectors such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences and biotechnology, as well as energy evolution.  “Texas is a national leader in population growth, job creation, technology and innovation, and overall economic expansion,” said Governor Abbott. “Entrepreneurs and businesses choose Texas because of our unmatched business friendly policies, low taxes, and highly skilled workforce. With this statewide economic development strategic plan, we will cement Texas as a global economic powerhouse. I thank the economic development organizations and businesses across Texas who work tirelessly to ensure that economic prosperity reaches every Texas family and every Texas business. Working together, we will build an even stronger, more prosperous Texas for generations.”  Grow your business in Houston.