In the final count, 65% of the area's voters supported theconstruction, an abrupt about-face from last year's defeat of asimilar measure. Pro-arena supporters used a $2.5-million campaignto remind voters of the differences in the packages--parking andticket taxes.

With a new arena, the Rockets will sign a lease to stay inHouston for 30 years after owner Leslie Alexander's Compaq Centerlease expires in November 2003. In addition, the Houston Aerosminor-league hockey team will call the new arena home, as well asany future National Hockey League team that may come toHouston.

The new arena will be the third erected in Houston within only afew years--at a rate never seen in the modern United States formajor-league sports facilities outside of the Olympics. The arenano doubt will be touted as Houston forges ahead with its bid to bean Olympics host city.