The Dallas Parks Department and Fair Park have recently unveiled plans for a major overhaul of the iconic 277-acre fairgrounds in Dallas, promising an increase in events throughout the year.
Key focal points of the renovation include the Cotton Bowl Stadium, the privately funded Community Park Complex, and the Music Hall at Fair Park. The funding for these enhancements comes from the Brimer Bill, a component of last year’s Proposition A referendum.
Set for its most significant update since 1948, the historic venue, a magnet for top entertainers and world-class events, is slated for a transformation. The project, with a budget of $140 million and a two-year duration, aims to both honor the site’s storied past and its distinctive architectural beauty while also bringing in modern features to better the visitor experience and to sustain the stadium’s appeal for future audiences.
“This is the first cog in the wheel of a greater mechanism, providing funding for the future of the campus,” said Fair Park First President of the Board Darren L. James. “Unlike previous renovations, which centered around increasing capacity, this project amplifies the fan experience for everyone who visits Fair Park.”
The Cotton Bowl’s refurbishment represents the most substantial investment in Fair Park’s 137-year existence. It highlights the joint venture between Dallas Parks and Recreation and Fair Park First, focusing on both preserving the stadium’s rich history and setting a vision for its status as Texas’s top outdoor venue.
Improvements will include expanded concourses, a significant increase in space per visitor in crucial areas, and the addition of escalators. The aim is to boost the overall fan experience with better Wi-Fi in the stadium, more hospitality and premium spaces, and collaborative efforts with Visit Dallas and the Dallas Sports Commission are expected to attract big-name concerts and sports events.
The two-phase restoration, planned over two years, is designed to allow the venue to continue hosting its annual events, including the 2024 State Fair of Texas. Other priority projects at Fair Park involve the revitalization of the Music Hall, upgrades to The African American Museum, and the creation of a new community park through private funding.
