Fort Worth is going big — really big — on its convention center makeover, unveiling ambitious plans for the $606 million second phase of a transformation that will reshape the city’s downtown landscape for decades to come.
The massive project will replace the aging 1968 arena with a gleaming four-story convention building, modernize existing spaces, and dramatically expand the facility’s capacity to attract major events. When completed in early 2030, the expanded complex will feature over 257,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, nearly 61,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and 74,000 square feet of ballroom space — positioning Fort Worth to compete with larger convention destinations across the country.
A Texas-Sized Transformation
What exactly will visitors see when the dust settles? The new design includes a striking central tower at Main and 9th Streets that pays homage to the historic Tarrant County Courthouse, along with uniquely Texan elements woven throughout. Native prairie landscaping, outdoor terraces for events, and subtle nods to the state’s cattle heritage — including longhorn logos and cattle brand motifs — will infuse the facility with local character.
The convention center expansion represents more than just additional square footage. It’s a strategic investment in Fort Worth’s future as a destination for business travelers and major events.
“Naming rights are part of the game even in convention center business, and we believe it can be a significant revenue stream to the building,” Mike Crum, Fort Worth’s director of public events, explained during the project’s unveiling.
The timeline for this massive undertaking is already mapped out. Mobilization will begin in summer 2026, with final events in the original arena wrapping up by September of that year. Demolition of the 1968 structure is scheduled for early 2027, making way for the new construction.
Building on Success
This isn’t the city’s first upgrade to the convention center. Phase 1 of the project, which added 76,000 square feet of space, is set to be completed by December 2025 — creating momentum for the more ambitious second phase.
The transparent, four-story design of the new structure aims to create a welcoming presence in downtown Fort Worth. A new leader has been tapped to spearhead the massive undertaking, ensuring the project stays on track and within its substantial budget. The city has brought in specialized expertise to manage the complex construction process.
Perhaps the most striking feature? The central tower that will echo the architecture of the Tarrant County Courthouse, creating a visual link between Fort Worth’s past and its future.
When completed, the expanded facility will boast 16 loading docks to facilitate the movement of exhibition materials and equipment — a crucial but often overlooked aspect of convention center functionality.
The city also produced video content showcasing the transformation, though the full details of this material weren’t immediately available.
For a city that’s long lived in the shadow of nearby Dallas, the convention center expansion represents more than just new meeting space — it’s Fort Worth’s bold statement that when it comes to hosting major events and drawing business travelers, this cowtown isn’t playing second fiddle anymore.
