HOUSTON – Excitement is building in Houston’s Third Ward as major neighborhood improvements are set to begin ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Airbnb, recently selected as an official partner for the FIFA World Cup 2025, has announced a $1 million investment aimed at enhancing host cities, including Houston.
A community preparing for the world stage
Just steps from Texas Southern University, work will soon begin along the 14-mile Columbia Tap Trail. Residents say they hope the upgrades will spark long-term growth long after the World Cup crowds head home.
For many who call the Third Ward home, the anticipation isn’t just about hosting the world’s most-watched sporting event, it’s about what the improvements could mean for daily life.
“I think it’s amazing,” said Third Ward resident Justin Reedy, reacting to the incoming investments.
Green spaces, walkability, and new soccer opportunities
The funding will support two major initiatives: The Green Corridor and Grow the Game.
The Green Corridor aims to transform public spaces by expanding green areas, adding shaded walkways, and improving mobility for both residents and visitors.
“The Green Corridor will transform public space and connect communities by expanding green space, creating shaded walkways, and improving mobility,” one project leader explained.
Meanwhile, Grow the Game focuses on boosting youth sports access across Houston.
“Grow the Game will build and renovate soccer fields around Houston and expand free club soccer access for all kids,” organizers said.
Interactive maps and trail enhancements are also part of the plan—improvements neighbors say they’ve been requesting for years as they advocate for a safer, more beautiful, more walkable community.
Community voices: Hope for long-term impact
For residents, the investment is more than cosmetic—it’s a sign of belief in the neighborhood.
“When you invest into the community, the community reinvests back into the funders,” one neighbor shared. “Convenience is key, and for them to invest that amount of money and opportunity for the people is beautiful.”
Still, many hope the momentum won’t end with the World Cup.
“If one million dollars can add such value to this trail, imagine what much more can do when that comes from these FIFA games,” Reedy said.
Houston’s World Cup boost
A recent study shows Houston is expected to see $372 million in visitor spending during the excitement of the 2026 World Cup—money residents hope will help sustain improvements for years to come.
As construction begins, Third Ward neighbors say they’re ready to welcome the world, and even more ready to see their community thrive.
Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.