Houston’s newest World Cup project is supposed to help fans survive the brutal Texas summer heat. Instead, it has sparked a wave of backlash from locals who say the city is spending money on flashy “architectural trees” for tourists. At the same time, everyday residents continue baking at uncovered bus stops.
The controversial structures, designed by Houston firm Rootlab, are being installed along Texas Avenue ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the Chron, city officials say the stainless steel “trees” could lower temperatures beneath them by as much as 15 degrees while doubling as glowing nighttime landmarks for visitors heading to the FIFA Fan Festival.
But many Texans online are not buying it…