Fort Worth Unveils Convention Center Expansion; Longtime Tourism Leader Retiring.

Fort Worth, Texas -- With the $95 million Phase 1 of the Fort Worth Convention Center complete and the ribbon cut in December, Fort Worth is charging ahead with Phase 2 expansion and modernization plans presented to City Council Feb. 3.

At $606 million, Phase 2 will deliver a new, flexible convention building in place of the 1968 arena and modernize the existing building that has not been significantly renovated since the previous expansion in 2003.

A transparent, 4-story structure will feature a central tower at Main and 9th Streets, reflecting the Tarrant County Courthouse on the north end of Main Street, a plaza with native prairie green space connecting to General Worth Square and terraces for outdoor events with expansive downtown views. Read more here.

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Fort Worth, TEXAS (January 20, 2026) - After 13 years leading Visit Fort Worth, President & CEO Bob Jameson has announced his retirement effective April 30, 2026.   

During Jameson's tenure, the city’s visitor economy doubled and Fort Worth became one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the country. His most enduring contribution has been elevating tourism to a driving force in the city’s economic development strategy not only for hotels but also for small businesses and creatives across the community.  

After leading Marriott’s Worthington Renaissance hotel for nearly three decades, Jameson helped transform the convention and visitors bureau into a dynamic tourism marketing organization. Under his leadership, the organization developed the Fort Worth Sports Commission, Hear Fort Worth music office, the Fort Worth Film Commission and the Fort Worth Tourism Public Improvement District (PID) to attract and support long-term growth of key industries throughout the city. He expanded support for convention sales and services and the Fort Worth Herd.  Read more here.