Will Rogers Memorial Center to receive $8.5 million facelift

FORT WORTH, Texas – The Will Rogers Memorial Center will receive an $8.5 million renovation after the plan was approved by the Fort Worth City Council.

Money from the American Plan of Salvation Act will be used to refurbish the Coliseum lobby, restrooms, lobby entrance, and the Backstage Club.

READ MORE: At a glance: Here’s what the new 18-acre park at Fair Park will look like

“The Will Rogers Coliseum has been loved by millions of visitors who have left memories here for 86 years,” Mike Crum, director of community events for the city of Fort Worth, said in a statement. “We are investing in the property so that its historic charm and elegance will continue to impress millions of future generations.”

The Colosseum is used for more than 30 equestrian competitions a year. The city says the show’s economic impact in 2021 was $74.2 million.

MORE FORT WORTH NEWS HERE

The oval lobby around the arena was last renovated in the 1970s.

The original Colosseum was opened in 1936. In the following years, many additions and upgrades were made to the building.