Astrodome project takes another step forward



>>Keep clicking for a look at all the ideas that have been proposed for the Astrodome over the years. less Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, above, backs a plan to raise the floor of the Astrodome to create parking spaces underneath, in hopes of attracting conventions or other commercial uses of the famed stadium. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, above, backs a plan to raise the floor of the Astrodome to create parking spaces underneath, in hopes of attracting conventions or other commercial uses of the famed ... more Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Staff Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Staff Image 1 of / 66 Caption Close Astrodome project takes another step forward 1 / 66 Back to Gallery

The proposed Astrodome renovation took another step forward Tuesday as Harris County Commissioners Court voted to seek a "construction manager at risk" for the project.

The court voted unanimously to advertise for the construction manager position. The construction manager would help the county get a more specific cost estimate of the construction, expected to cost roughly $95 million to raise the Dome's floors and install two levels of parking underneath.

Commissioners Court is expected to vote on the construction next year.

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The renovation would open the Dome for festivals or conferences and could usher in potential commercial uses in the more than 550,000 square feet that surrounds the core.

County officials have said 2020 is a rough, early estimate for when the project could be completed.

Architects and engineers are working on the first phase of the project. That first phase began in September, and was seen as one of the most concrete steps toward securing the Dome's future.

Once dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the Dome has been vacant for years, and hosted its last Houston Astros game in 2000.