The Moody Foundation in Galveston, Texas, has announced a $6 million grant to the Lubbock County Expo Center (LCEC) to support construction of a multipurpose arena and rodeo venue.

The development of the exposition center, described as a state of-the-art home for rodeos, agriculture, concerts, sports, and other first-class entertainment, was approved by Lubbock County voters in 2018, requiring that half the $87 million needed for construction be raised from private contributions. The grant brings LCEC—a public charity created in 2019—within $9 million of fully funding the first phase of construction. In recognition of the gift, the arena will be named for the foundation.

“Once completed, this grand venue will provide not only great entertainment and educational opportunities, but also a tremendous economic boost through job creation and increased tourism, retail, restaurant, and hotel business,” said LCEC board chair Randy Jordan.

“The Lubbock County Expo Center marks an exciting era for west Texas, providing fans and citizens a world-class experience in entertainment and rodeo,” said foundation vice president Ross Moody. “We couldn’t be happier to partner with LCEC in this transformative gift to benefit future generations of Texans.”

(Photo credit: Moody Foundation/Lubbock County Expo Center)