History of the Complex

The Longview Convention Complex encompasses the Maude Cobb Convention Center, Longview Exhibit Center, PRCA approved Rodeo Arena, Agricultural Pavilion and Fairgrounds, providing a multi-­purpose complex suitable for a variety of activities and events. A joint project of the Longview Chamber of Commerce and the City of Longview, the Longview Convention Complex was built and furnished debt free with money from the hotel/motel occupancy fund and personal contributions. Built both by and for the community, the rental fee structure has assured utilization of the facilities by our citizens. 

A groundbreaking ceremony was conducted on September 7, 1982. Maude Cobb Convention Center opened January 20, 1984, and was turned over debt-­free to the City of Longview to operate and maintain. In 1986, the City purchased the Longview Exhibit Center, Fairgrounds, Rodeo Arena and Agricultural Pavilion from the Longview Jaycees, creating a 62­-acre complex. During the development of the Master Plan, additional land was donated totaling 95.9 acres. The Longview Convention Complex provides the citizens of Longview a multi­purpose events complex that is second to none in the East Texas region.

In May 2007, the voters of Longview approved a $2.5 million improvement package for the Longview Convention Complex. The facility was closed mid-­October 2008 and re-­opened in January 2009. Improvements included overall interior make over, kitchen expansion, new conference room addition, new carpet in classrooms, new room dividers, new tile, updated restrooms, family restroom and additional women’s restroom facilities, automatic openers on dock doors, drop down screens in classrooms and main hall, and new improved lighting.

With its 40,000 square­ foot modern Maude Cobb Convention Center, versatile 25,000 square­ foot Longview Exhibit Center and PRCA­ Approved Rodeo Arena, the Longview Convention Complex has a facility for every activity. The 100-­acre site in the heart of Longview is just north of I­-20.  It is convenient to hotels, restaurants, clubs, shopping and outdoor attractions such as golf courses, parks, lakes, The Green, and Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.  Longview’s historic downtown Main Street area and Cultural District is only minutes away and features 100 Acres of Heritage, Heritage Plaza, museums, a sculpture garden, specialty shops, arts, and dining.