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Latest Astrodome proposal: massive indoor park

The newest proposal for repurposing the Houston Astrodome and saving it from demolition envisions turning the now-empty stadium into the world's largest indoor park.
F367067 02: Seen here in this March 31, 2000 file photo is an aerial view of the Houston Astrodome, home to the hometeam the Astros. (Photo by Paul S. Howell)

HOUSTON (AP) - The newest proposal for repurposing the Houston Astrodome and saving it from demolition envisions turning the now-empty stadium into the world's largest indoor park.

The pitch comes from Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, the county's top elected official. He revealed his idea at a news conference Tuesday on the floor of the 49-year-old county-owned building.

Emmett said his idea would include spaces for festivals and other gatherings, as well as hiking, biking and fitness trails on the stadium's upper levels. He had no cost estimate or firm plan for its funding, though he suggested creating private-public partnerships to pay for it.

The Houston Texans and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo have been eager to demolish the iconic but derelict dome that's next to the new NRG Stadium.

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