the complex was proposed by county officials in 1961 as a competitor to the dallas convention center and approved in 1967. over 14 city blocks (previously known as "hell's half acre") were demolished to make way for the new facility that opened in 1968. the building is noted for the indoor arena, resembling a flying saucer. in 1997 the city of fort worth purchased the facilities and properties, changing the complex's name to the fort worth convention center. in 2000 the jfk theatre was demolished to make way for the water garden events plaza. in 2014 the city proposed to demolish the aging arena for an additional meeting space.