Houston is about to embark on a transformative journey that will reshape the city's skyline and boost its economic prowess. Houston First Corporation has made a game-changing move by selecting Hines, a global real estate powerhouse headquartered right here in Houston, to lead the ambitious transformation of the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) and its surrounding district. This landmark project is set to turn the 37-year-old convention center into a vibrant, world-class destination that will attract larger conferences and meetings, providing a significant economic boost to downtown Houston.

A Visionary Partnership for a Vibrant Future

Houston First’s decision to partner with Hines was unanimous, following a rigorous Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process. Hines’ deep roots in Houston, coupled with its extensive global experience in managing complex real estate projects, made it the ideal choice for this ambitious undertaking. Michael Heckman, president and CEO of Houston First, expressed confidence in Hines' ability to deliver a dynamic, interconnected convention and entertainment district that will showcase the best of Houston.

"This is a generational opportunity for Houston to transform the eastern edge of its downtown and ensure that we remain a Tier 1 convention city for years to come," said Heckman. "Hines' track record of managing complex projects gives us confidence in their ability to bring our vision to life."

A Strategic Investment with State Support

The project will be funded through the state’s portion of incremental Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) revenue, thanks to Senate Bill 1057, authored by then-Senator and now Mayor John Whitmire. This funding mechanism, which has benefited cities like Dallas and Fort Worth, ensures that Houston can undertake this transformative project without placing an additional burden on taxpayers.

Phased Development for Continued Operations

The transformation of the GRB will be executed in phases to ensure the convention center remains operational throughout the process. The first phase, expected to begin in 2025, will focus on creating new meeting spaces south of the existing center, along with improved pedestrian and vehicular infrastructure. This phased approach will also lay the groundwork for new development and entertainment venues, all designed to enhance the overall appeal of the convention district.

Hines’ portfolio includes some of Houston’s most iconic structures, such as the Texas Tower, Hilton Americas, and the Toyota Center. With such a strong foundation, the GRB project is poised to become a cornerstone of Houston’s continued growth and a catalyst for economic prosperity.

A Bright Future for Downtown Houston

As Houston gears up for this monumental transformation, the partnership between Houston First and Hines signals a new era for the city. The GRB project is not just about modernizing a convention center; it’s about reimagining an entire district that will drive economic growth, attract global events, and cement Houston’s status as a premier destination for conventions and tourism.

Stay tuned as Houston’s skyline gets a bold new addition, and the George R. Brown Convention Center becomes a shining example of what’s possible when vision meets expertise. This is more than a project—it’s a promise for a brighter, more vibrant Houston.

For more info, visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/