Houston, TX, March 6, 2025 — Houston First Corporation, Hines, Gilbane, Flintco, Populous and city officials gathered to hear Mayor John Whitmire talk of the transformative expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB), marking the beginning of a landmark development project that will reshape Houston’s downtown convention district.
The initial construction phase focuses on GRB Houston South, a new state-of-the-art facility immediately south of the existing convention center. The expansion includes additional exhibition halls, flexible meeting spaces, grand ballrooms, and integrated parking facilities on four city blocks along Chenevert Street between Clay Street and Bell Street.
“This project perfectly aligns Flintco’s core strengths in complex urban construction with Houston’s vision for a world-class convention and entertainment district,” said Joel Lester, Flintco Vice President and Area Manager. “Our team brings decades of experience in convention center construction and a proven track record of delivering transformative projects that energize communities.”
The transformation will significantly enhance Houston’s position in the competitive convention market. The modernized facility is expected to generate thousands of new jobs and billions in economic impact for the region. Houston First anticipates the expansion will allow the city to attract more conventions and events, substantially increasing annual hotel room bookings and visitor spending throughout the downtown area.
“This landmark project goes beyond traditional convention center construction – it’s about crafting a catalyst for Houston’s economic future,” said Scott Taylor, Flintco Project Manager. “By combining advanced construction techniques with our deep commitment to local workforce development, we’re not just building a facility – we’re helping create a vibrant downtown destination that will generate opportunities for Houstonians for decades to come.”
The development will be coordinated with the Texas Department of Transportation’s I-45 re-routing and US 59/I-69 lowering projects, creating a 30-acre green space connecting East Downtown to the convention district.
The first phase is scheduled to be completed before in 2028. The project will be executed in phases to ensure the existing convention center remains fully operational throughout construction.
Key Features of the Initial Phase:
- New exhibition halls and ballrooms
- State-of-the-art meeting spaces
- Integrated parking facilities
- Enhanced pedestrian and vehicular infrastructure
- Improved connectivity to downtown amenities
This transformative project extends beyond the expansion of exhibition space—it reimagines downtown Houston as a dynamic, walkable district where convention activities seamlessly blend with urban life. The development will create an energetic hub that connects the convention center to restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues through an integrated network of pedestrian-friendly spaces and green corridors.