AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council has approved several items related to the funding of a $1.6 billion convention center redevelopment project, despite mixed public opinion.
During the public comment period, Betsy Greenberg opposed the project, stating, “We do not need another one, especially one that costs billions.” In contrast, Tom Noonan, president of Visit Austin, supported the expansion, saying, “We have a great plan, it’s working, let’s not break it.”
The project aims to generate $650 million from special tax revenue bonds. Noonan emphasized Austin’s growth, noting, “We are the 13th largest city in America. We had the 61st largest Convention Center. If we build the new one, we’ll be 35.” Matt Geske, VP of Public Affairs for Downtown Austin Alliance, warned that without approval, “many small businesses and their jobs will close and leave downtown.”
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District 5 Councilmember Ryan Alter highlighted the economic benefits, stating, “The convention center is a major economic driver for this city. It generates a lot in sales taxes.” However, Bill Bunch from Save Our Springs Alliance criticized the project as “a phenomenal waste of money.”
When compared to its peer cities, Fort Worth – the 11th largest city in the U.S. – spent just $701 million on renovations for its convention center. Dallas, the 9th largest city, spent more than $3 billion, and Houston is set to begin $2 billion renovations next year.
The city plans to allocate up to $1.7 million for community outreach services related to the project, but Bunch argues, “There was never a single serious effort to engage the community in looking at the cost and benefits of the project.”
Additionally, the council approved a chilling plant and right of way in the downtown area, which are not directly related to the expansion but will be included in its contract for project delivery.