The new facade of the main entrance to the Toyota Center will include a 3,100 square foot glass facade that will have a lounge, looking at downtown. (Courtesy Harris County-Houston Sports Authority)
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The Harris County-Houston Sports Authority announced April 8 that the home of the Houston Rockets will receive $180 million in upgrades through fall 2027.
Mapping it out
During a presentation to the HCHSA board of directors, Gretchen Sheirr, president of business operations with the Rockets, announced significant interior and exterior changes coming to the Toyota Center, which opened in 2003.
“When you look at what has happened in those 23 years, and you think about what will happen in the next 23 years, we’re really excited about it,” Sheirr said.
Those upgrades include:
3,100 square feet extended main entrance with a glass facade
New atrium upon entering the main entrance, with space for gathering
Members lounge over the new entrance
Expanded team store with an additional set of doors
Standing room and general admission space for events
Heightened suites that will raise ceilings about 18 inches for more space
Upgraded premium entrance
Removal of 16 executive suites and creation of 24 smaller spaces with box seating
Addition of a bar, concessions, team store and gathering area to the upper concourse
Upgraded infrastructure, including elevators, network and connectivity, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, electronic wayfinding, and security systems
The atrium will include a gathering space for indoors, and will be for pre-game and post-event gatherings. (Rendering courtesy Harris County-Houston Sports Authority)
Upgrades will also include creating a training center for WNBA-specific needs when the Houston Comets move to the city in 2027. Those upgrades include creating practice courts, weight rooms, office staff, locker rooms, a medical lounge, nutrition and storage spaces.
The board of directors unanimously approved the upgrades.Part of the Toyota Center's upgrades includes a standing room and general admission area. (Rendering courtesy Harris County-Houston Sports Authority)The timeline
Interior work will begin in April, with exterior work beginning July 1, dependent on when the NBA season ends for the Rockets, project officials said.
“We’re hoping for a later start date than a sooner start date,” Sheirr said.
The exterior work is expected to be completed by fall 2027, before the 2027-28 NBA season. During that time, the main entrance will be closed, Sheirr said. When the NBA season starts, a temporary entrance will be opened.
Project funding
Funding will come from Clutch City Sports & Entertainment, as well as state grants.
The Toyota Center will continue to operate during construction.
The upper concourse will have a bar area, as well as a concession, team store and gathering area. (Rendering courtesy Harris County-Houston Sports Authority)
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