HOUSTON — Crews began demolishing the Avenida South Garage in downtown Houston on May 4 as part of the continuing expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center. The garage closed to the public the same day and is being torn down to make room for the future GRB South building.

"That was a great garage for many, many years. [Demolition] was required because of where the building will sit." Houston First CEO Michael Heckman said.

A new 1,000-space garage under construction at Bell and Chenevert streets is expected to open in early fall. The new garage is part of the first phase of the broader GRB expansion project.

Houston City Council member Joaquin Martinez said construction is not expected to interfere with downtown events or preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. "The space that we're speaking of is about a four-block radius," he said. "Construction shouldn't hinder anything coming east of downtown where the Fan Fest will be."

Visitors to the convention center, Discovery Green and Hilton Americas-Houston have several nearby parking options during construction. Visitors to the convention center and Discovery Green are encouraged to use the Avenida North Garage, while Hilton guests are encouraged to use valet service on Dallas Street with vehicles parked at the Avenida Central Garage beneath Discovery Green.

Additional parking is available at the Tundra Garage near Toyota Center, the Norton Rose Fulbright Tower garage and nearby surface lots. Drivers can reserve parking online through Downtown Houston+.