City Council got a first look at the 2026 bond proposal earlier this week, and we’re here to turn a lot of numbers into a few short sentences.
Show me the money
The $800 million bond will not result in a property tax increase for residents. The proposed capital projects focus on mitigating congestion, developing the economy, and constructing new public facilities. The city will also share an additional list of possible projects — to the tune of $125 million — in public comment meetings.
Budget biggies
$477 million for streets and mobility
Road infrastructure represents 60% of the proposal with nearly 100 individual projects ranging from major roadway reconstruction to sidewalks and streetlights.
$185 million for parks and open space
Over 23% of the funding is proposed to be set aside for public recreation spaces, including the $30 million reconstruction of the Atatiana Carr-Jefferson at Hillside Community Center.
$14 million for the Fort Worth Public Library
Funds will cover expansions for the Southwest, East Berry, and Diamond Hill branches, as well as public art across multiple locations.
$64 million for public safety
Over half of the public safety budget is designated for a new fire station on the far south side of town + the reconstruction of Station 40 near Eagle Mountain Lake.
$60 million for animal care
Most of the funding will go to a new 45,000-sqft animal shelter to replace the Silcox shelter.
What’s next?
Keep an eye out for community engagement meetings this spring and online engagement tools to share your feedback on the proposal. The city will finalize the project list this fall in advance of the bond election in May 2026.
