4 5 SHOWING THE LOVE! IF the walls could talk, the stories they’d tell about the legendary Will Rogers Coliseum. Stories about rodeos, the crowning of cutting horse champions, circuses, Golden Gloves boxing, Billy Graham revivals and the list would go on and on. Preservation of one of Fort Worth’s most significant historical landmarks provides enough reason to renovate the now 90-year-old treasure but strong demand for its continued use makes a $47 million project crucial to the city and region’s economic vitality. The endeavor began during the 2025 FWSSR and kicked into high gear in February with project completion planned for December. The Will Rogers Coliseum has been, arguably, the scene of more significant events in professional rodeo and western equestrian competitions than any facility in the United States. A Texas Centennial rodeo in 1936 and the FWSSR’s move in 1944 triggered performance horse events to follow in the popular building referred to by rodeo and horse show fans simply as “Will Rogers.” When the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) moved its growing futurity to Will Rogers in the fall of 1962, it’s unlikely anyone knew just how significant the impact on Fort Worth and the surrounding area would be 60 years later. More NCHA competitions followed including the association’s Super Stakes in March and April and the Summer Spectacular held in July and August. Other organizations followed, including the American Paint Horse Association’s World Championship Show, the United States Team Roping Championships and others. The most significant additions in recent years included the National Reined Cow Horse Association moved the Snaffle Bit Futurity and Celebration of Champions / World’s Greatest Horseman events. Between these and other events, the Coliseum’s year-long calendar is, today, virtually full. NEEDED REPAIRS AND UPGRADES Heavy use over nine decades has created the need for some serious TLC. Wear and tear from “foot traffic” in the concourse and “hoof traffic” in the livestock infrastructure facilities has taken a significant toll. While maintaining a commitment to keeping the venue’s iconic feel, the project’s plans also call for expanding the concourse by removing outdated structures (rooms and offices) thus creating new sightlines to the arena which, in turn, improves lighting throughout the building. Long overdue restroom renovations will be a very welcome improvement for all Coliseum guests. “This exciting project will transform the facility into a more open environment giving our guests a greater feel for the excitement on the arena floor while maintaining the Coliseum’s nostalgic feel and look that they’ve always loved,” said Stock Show President and General Manager Matt Carter. “Besides the concourse and restroom improvements, these upgrades will include replacing the major HVAC and electrical systems, adding fire and life safety systems, as well as accessibility accommodations for all guests” he added. Rooms adjacent to the Coliseum’s south end are being transformed from warehouse space into features such as meeting rooms, food preparation and dining facilities thus giving the building expanded usefulness to Stock Show and other year-round tenants. EXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS Restoring the exterior’s original look as well as improving the overall aesthetic is also a priority. Guests approaching the Coliseum will gain a refreshed perspective of the Art Deco style by the removal of an obsolete awning (originally installed years after the original construction) that covered the building’s westside doors. Historically accurate doors with windows on both east and west sides will not only compliment the exterior’s classic look but will Will Rogers Coliseum undergoing first phase of comprehensive renovation project for iconic Fort Worth structures. TOP PHOTO: Rendering of the WRMC Coliseum concourse and stairs highlights the updated design for an improved flow. BOTTOM PHOTO: Rendering of the WRMC Coliseum shows the view from the VIP area, offering a clear look into the arena for an enhanced guest experience. TOP PHOTO: Historic photograph of original roof design with metallic, decorative ribs. Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo January 16 - February 7, 2026 www.fwssr.com
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