Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo breaks ground on $300M agricultural complex

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has broken ground on ‘The Farm,’ a new $300 million agricultural complex located along Highway 288. This 1 million-square-foot facility represents the largest facilities investment in the organization’s 95-year history and is expected to open in 2029.

The project is intended to support livestock competitions, horse shows, agricultural education, and youth programs. Planned infrastructure includes two large barns totaling approximately 860,000 square feet, a 140,000-square-foot central building, and a 105,000-square-foot covered cattle yard. The site will feature more than 1,100 livestock pens, 60 wash bays, and spectator seating for up to 4,000 people in the main arena bowl.

Most of the development will be funded by the Rodeo without financial commitments from taxpayers. Houston Mayor John Whitmire noted the significance of the project, highlighting that the organization is expanding community opportunities and agricultural engagement while remaining committed to the city without relying on public assistance.