Houston Wants Upgraded Sports & Entertainment Venues

A recent survey of Harris County voters conducted by the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs revealed strong support for using public funds to renovate major sports and entertainment venues. The majority of voters are excited about potential new attractions, such as a theme park, WNBA and NHL teams, and World Cup games coming to Houston. Support for renovating NRG Stadium and redeveloping the Astrodome through public-private partnerships was high, with most voters favoring public funding of up to 40%. The idea of a destination theme park received enthusiastic support, especially from Black and Latino voters. While plans for a major motor speedway received a mixed reaction, Houston’s upcoming hosting of seven Men’s FIFA World Cup games in 2026 generated clear excitement among voters. The survey findings suggest broad public support for Houston to continue being a national hub for sports and entertainment, with a blend of nostalgia, current institutions, and new ventures contributing to the city’s cultural and economic vitality.

Harris County voters back renovations to NRG Stadium and the Astrodome, plus show strong interest in a Houston-based theme park and pro sports teams. https://t.co/O7dzmyGNe2

— KHOU 11 News Houston (@KHOU) July 31, 2025