Fort Worth Convention Center Arena Closed for Expansion

The 58-year-old venue shuttered on September 20, 2026, to clear space for a massive $701 million modernization project.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Fort Worth Convention Center Arena Closed for Expansion

Live Poll

Should the city prioritize large-scale public investment in convention center expansion?

The Fort Worth Convention Center Arena officially closed its doors on September 20, 2026, ending 58 years of operation. The closure marks the beginning of a $352 million second phase of a broader $701 million expansion and renovation project.

Why it matters

The city is pursuing this significant redevelopment to accommodate rapid population growth as one of the country's largest cities. The project aims to provide modernized facilities to maintain the competitive standing of the downtown area.

The modernized facility will feature 156,000 square feet of exhibit hall space and 58,000 square feet of flexible meeting areas. The design also includes 21 breakout rooms, a 28,000-square-foot ballroom, and a 55,000-square-foot events plaza.

The players

Fort Worth Convention Center

This is a major public facility located in downtown Fort Worth that serves as a central hub for regional gatherings and conferences.

The details

The second phase of the project involves constructing a new three-story addition alongside the renovation of existing meeting rooms within the downtown facility. Demolition of the former arena structure is currently slated to occur during the first quarter of 2027.

September 20, 2026: The Fort Worth Convention Center Arena officially closed.
Q1 2027: Arena demolition is scheduled to take place.
Q4 2029: The entire remodel and expansion will be finished.
December 31, 2029: Phase two of the remodel is scheduled to end.

Market Landscape

This project reflects the broader push among major metropolitan centers to scale infrastructure capacity in line with significant population shifts. By upgrading the facility, the city ensures it remains a viable contender for large-scale event hosting against regional rivals.

Local event organizers and residents should expect temporary closures in the downtown area as construction progresses through 2029. Traffic patterns and access to adjacent landmarks may change periodically throughout the multi-year demolition and build phases.

The takeaway

Large-scale infrastructure projects often require long-term closures of historic local facilities to enable future growth. Residents should anticipate localized construction impacts as the city transitions to these modern, expanded facilities over the next three years.