City of Fort Worth
Mayor Mattie Parker said the project will “grow the economic impact of these facilities for the City of Fort Worth, which already exceeds $217 million in direct economic activity.”
Fort Worth knows how to tip its hat to history while striding confidently into the future. Last week, the city marked a milestone in its ever-evolving legacy with a lively ceremony at the Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC). The celebration unveiled the third phase of a transformative, four-part renovation plan to revitalize eight livestock barns originally built in 1948. And, oh, what a transformation it is.
Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) officials, Mayor Mattie Parker led the festivities in Arena 1—a brand-new addition perfectly paired with the rejuvenated Sheep and Swine barns. The arena sits cozily near Dickies Arena and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, a fitting neighbor for Fort Worth’s storied Western spirit.
“With the Stock Show only one month away, we can hardly wait to see the look on the faces of the thousands of 4-H and FFA youth when they bring their animals into these amazing buildings for competition,” said Stock Show General Manager Matt Carter.
Step inside the newly revamped barns, and you’ll notice a world of difference. Bright lighting, fresh air ventilation, enhanced washing facilities, and an array of amenities make these buildings more than functional — they’re inspiring. Arena 1’s addition means 41% more stalling space for sheep, goats, and swine during the Stock Show, turning potential into performance for exhibitors of all ages.
But this isn’t just a one-trick pony. These buildings’ innovative “flat floor” design makes them a chameleon for the community. Banquets, trade shows, receptions, meetings — if you can dream it, this space can host it. Of course, the barns still serve as an equestrian haven, supporting horse shows during non-Stock Show months.
City of Fort Worth
Fort Worth isn’t just embracing change; it’s answering the call of growing demand. Equine organizations such as the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Paint Horse Association are seeing unprecedented participation, according to the City's site. The updated facilities add 320 new stalls and a climate-controlled exercise arena, elevating the experience for competitors while solidifying WRMC as a national hub for equestrian excellence.
“Without having to expand our structural footprint, these organizations now have additional stalling capacity and a new climate-controlled exercise arena for their competitors to enjoy during non-Stock Show months,” said Parker. “This growth is about more than amenities — it’s about boosting our city’s economic impact, which already exceeds $217 million in direct activity annually.”
The $40 million price tag for the project was shared equally by FWSSR and the City of Fort Worth — a true public-private partnership. The collaboration has been a driving force behind the WRMC’s renaissance, with a total of $69.24 million invested in Phases I through III.
As Stock Show Chairman Philip Williamson shared, the final phase is already on the horizon. “We’re working on the conceptual design of Phase Four, which will bring much-needed upgrades to Cattle Barns 3 and 4. Our decades-long partnership is proof of what’s possible when government and the private sector unite for a shared vision.”
Mark your calendars, folks. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo kicks off January 17 and runs through February 8, 2025. Expect more than 13,000 youth competitors, over $7 million in scholarships and auction receipts, and a global audience of 1.2 million visitors.
