Once touted as the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Astrodome sits quietly gathering dust and items for storage Monday, May 21, 2012, in Houston. The domed stadium was home to the Houston Oilers, Astros and Stock Show and Rodeo along with playing host to the NBA Finals, professional boxing, tennis extravaganzas and numerous high school football playoff games. (AP Photo/Pat Sullivan)

HOUSTON (AP) — The Astrodome, a now-empty showplace that has hosted everyone from Elvis Presley to Hurricane Katrina evacuees, should be turned into a multipurpose facility that could spark fresh interest in the city of Houston, a group of consultants recommended Wednesday.

The $270 million option was one of four considered by consultants led by Dallas-based CSL. The other options included leaving the dome alone, demolishing it and building an outdoor plaza, or building a massive and expensive “renaissance” complex anchored by a luxury hotel.

In a presentation to Harris County’s sports and convention agency, the consultants said the multipurpose option could turn Houston into a popular destination for special events and national trade shows. The plan would preserve the iconic structure’s outer shell.

Bill Rhoda, CSL’s president, said the multipurpose facility proposal “recognizes the magnitude of potential opportunities offered by this one-of-a-kind structure.”

via The Associated Press: Astrodome spared? Group suggests overhaul, reuse.