Major cities across the country are investing in their convention districts to attract new business meetings, trade shows and events. Houston recently received a major boost with the passage of a state law that will provide $2 billion for upgrades to its George R. Brown Convention Center over the next 30 years. The incremental revenue from hotel-occupancy tax can be used not only for improvements but also potential development of new hotels and venues within the district.
Houston First, which is responsible for heading up these improvements, plans on creating a vision later this year as city officials have yet to decide how they will use this newfound revenue. This influx of funds could potentially bring an unprecedented level of growth and economic opportunity throughout Houston’s convention district in coming years.