Over the next decade, downtown will be reimagined with more housing, small businesses, better community spaces, and improved public transportation.
Last week, City Council approved Plan 2033 — a Downtown Strategic Action Plan that’s updated every 10 years to act as a roadmap that helps decision-makers respond to changes and opportunities over the next decade.
Funded by the City of Fort Worth, Trinity Metro, and Downtown Fort Worth Inc., the plan studied the core of downtown + surrounding areas and produced an official vision that emphasizes a walkable, vibrant, and more engaged neighborhood.
An updated vision
The updated plan is split into four primary overarching goals: livable neighborhoods, a diversified economy, distinct public spaces, and better transportation.
With clear goals in mind, the plan includes several methods for improving the area. Some of the strategies include:
- A new downtown Tax Increment Financing district
- Development of city-owned land
- Evaluation of policies regarding how the city regulates street closures, event permitting, and food truck use
- A downtown parking study
- Strategic plans that include the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Public Art Master Plan
Plans for future development
Plan 2033 also details 11 main projects for the area including the redevelopment of the Central Library, the soon-to-open Deco 969 residential tower, and the Lancaster connector to the T&P platform. Here’s a detailed overview of the other major projects:
- Omni Hotel expansion
- Convention Center renovation
- New Texas A&M-Fort Worth campus
- Construction of Heritage and Paddock parks
- Creation of Panther Island
- Redevelopment of Butler Place
- TEXRail expansion
- City Hall relocation
Approval of Plan 2033 follows more than a year of community engagement activities that included interviews, surveys, public and personal meetings with partner organizations, and seven volunteer subcommittees.