As thousands of people head to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for opening day, officials are warning visitors to be careful where they park near NRG Stadium after a video surfaced showing a man appearing to pose as a parking attendant and taking people’s money.
The footage was shown to rodeo officials, who say it highlights a bigger concern about unofficial parking operations near the event.
Rodeo leaders say the goal is to help guests avoid getting scammed and keep their vehicles safe. Kyle Olson, Chief Show Operations Officer, said unofficial lots are not managed by the rodeo.
“People get very creative on what they call a parking lot and again that is not something we can manage. City is aware.”
Officials say situations like the one seen in the video are a reminder for visitors to stay alert.
“You got to watch out these days.”
They also warned that scammers may take advantage of large crowds attending major events.
“If they have the opportunity to take advantage they do.”
To reduce the risk, officials recommend parking only in official rodeo lots, which are directly overseen by event organizers.
“Those we directly manage and we have full control with security posted 24/7.”
Officials say another way to avoid parking issues is to skip driving altogether, though no specific transportation options were detailed in the broadcast.
They are also urging visitors not to leave valuables inside their vehicles, no matter where they park.
“Your personal belongings major belongings lock your cars don’t leave anything of values. We do everything we can to secure. There are no guarantees keep valuables locked up.”
Rodeo officials emphasize they cannot control what happens in unofficial lots. Parking in those areas could also put drivers at risk of being towed.
As rodeo season gets underway, officials say the best advice is simple: make sure the only thing you are handing over at the gate is your ticket, not your cash to the wrong person in the parking lot.