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Rodeo Details Freeman Coliseum Overhaul Ahead of Bexar County Venue-Tax Vote

A rodeo-led town hall highlighted the upgrade plan alongside voter calls for clearer financing details.

Overview

  • Prop A on the Nov. 4 ballot would fund $235–$240 million in upgrades to county-owned facilities, including Frost Bank Center improvements, a new Freeman Coliseum roof, and an overhaul of the Expo Hall and grounds.
  • The plan relies on raising the hotel portion of the county venue tax from 1.75% to 2%, which county estimates say could generate about $192 million, with roughly $48 million already in venue-tax reserves.
  • A key proposal would convert the primary exposition hall into a permanent 2,800-seat arena to support more year-round events such as horse competitions, charrerías, and larger expositions.
  • Rodeo leaders are seeking 20 additional event days at the Freeman Coliseum and Frost Bank Center, and county officials say the venues would remain under county control.
  • A separate Prop B would allocate up to $311 million toward a new downtown Spurs arena, which the rodeo backs, while community coalition COPS/Metro opposes Prop B and remains neutral on Prop A.