Harris County recommends Astrodome renovation in time for 2017 Super Bowl

The historic Astrodome in Houston was closed four years ago for being deemed unfit for occupancy, but many locals would like to keep the stadium alive due to it's iconic nature. Going even further than that, Harris County Sports & Convention Corp. has proposed a $194 million project to renovate the stadium for use during the 2017 Super Bowl that will be hosted in Reliant Park, the area that includes the Houston Texans home stadium and also the now-defunct Astrodome.

"We have a chance to honor the dome's legacy and do it in a functional manner that continues to preserve the memories and history of the building while inspiring the future," said Kevin Hoffman, the sports corporation's deputy executive director.

Many ideas have been tossed around since closing the facility in 2009, including tearing it down for parking for Reliant Stadium, a park, a retail space for visitors, or a 2012 proposal to turn it into a multi-purpose facility that would have cost roughly $270 million. This new plan, called "The New Dome Experience," may be able to satisfy both sentimental fans and county officials.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett called the proposal the "perfect solution" for dealing with the Astrodome.

The proposal goes to the Harris County commissioners on June 25th for approval. It would take approximately two and a half years to complete.

More from SB Nation:

• Mike Florio loses Twitter feud with an NFL mascot

• Aaron Hernandez linked to murder investigation

• The NFL's All-Middle Name team

• The Jaguars are getting swimming pools

• Uffsides: A smile-off with Hines Ward