UH survey reveals citizens’ feelings on sports, entertainment topics in Houston

A new survey conducted by the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston reveals strong support among Harris County voters for public funding of renovations to NRG Stadium and several future entertainment developments across the county.

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Here’s what the polls said:

Public support for NRG Stadium renovation

Nearly three-quarters of Harris County voters believe the county should contribute at least some funding toward the cost of renovating NRG Stadium, the home of the Houston Texans and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

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While opinions differ on the scale of investment, only 26% of voters believe the county should provide no funding at all.

• 26% support the county covering 21–40% of the renovation cost.

• 25% believe the county should fund 1–20%.

• 23% back a county contribution of more than 40%.

• 26% say the county should not pay anything.

Popularity of NRG Stadium’s tenants

The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo and the Houston Texans—NRG Stadium’s primary two attractions—continue to enjoy widespread popularity from Houstonians.

• 81% of voters view the Rodeo favorably, while only 12% hold an unfavorable view.

• 73% have a favorable opinion of the Houston Texans, compared to 18% with an unfavorable view.

• A small share of voters (7% for the Rodeo, 9% for the Texans) are unfamiliar with the organizations.

Enthusiasm for entertainment and sports developments

Voters also expressed strong support for new and revitalized entertainment venues in Harris County.

• 62% favor using public funds in a public-private partnership to renovate the Astrodome into an entertainment venue.

• 68% are enthusiastic about a destination theme park resort opening in Houston, with enthusiasm especially high among families:

  • 36% say they would visit more than once a year (including 50% of parents with children under 18).

  • 25% would visit once a year, 21% less than once a year, and 18% would never visit.

Mixed reactions to a new motorsports venue

A proposed motor speedway capable of hosting NASCAR, Formula 1, and IndyCar events received a more divided response:

• 48% of voters are enthusiastic.

• 52% are not.

Support for professional sports expansion

Interest in expanding Houston’s professional sports footprint is high:

• 64% are enthusiastic about a WNBA team in Houston.

• 61% support bringing an NHL team to the city.

• 75% are excited about Houston hosting seven Men’s FIFA World Cup matches at NRG Stadium in summer 2026.

What these results say about Houston

The survey results suggest that Harris County voters are open to public-private investment in major sports projects and entertainment facilities, particularly when the projects involve popular teams or have the potential to make Houston a national or international destination.

As county officials and the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority consider funding decisions, particularly regarding NRG Stadium renovations and the future of the Astrodome, these findings highlight a voter base that is largely receptive to enhancing Houston’s entertainment landscape. That being said, voters clearly have preferences for which projects are worth tax dollars.