The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on Wednesday announced plans to develop a year-round livestock and agricultural complex that will significantly change how both residents and locals experience one of the city’s most impactful brands.
The Houston rodeo will construct a more than 1 million-square-foot complex along Highway 288, with a groundbreaking set for late 2026, according to a press release. The goal is to open the complex in time for the 2029 rodeo with construction ongoing for “several years,” per the rodeo.
“For nearly a century, this organization has existed to support the students, exhibitors, and families who make this event possible,” said Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo President and CEO Chris Boleman. “This represents the largest investment in Rodeo history and a profound commitment to the future of our event, educational opportunities and agriculture. It’s about honoring the trust families place in us when they bring their animals, their students and their dreams to this show. We are investing in a facility that reflects the importance of that responsibility.”
The new complex will support year-round educational opportunities and agricultural programming and not take the place of the Reliant Park area itself during the rodeo. Instead, during the annual event, the complex will host all horse show competitions, some livestock shows, breeding shows, archery competitions, auctions and more.
Local and regional officials, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, shared their excitement for what the Rodeo is calling its largest investment in its 95-year history…