The future of downtown Fort Worth: southeast quadrant
May 20,2024
See full FTW Today article by Ted Bauer here.
Construction is booming in downtown — specifically the southeast quadrant from 9th St. to W. Lancaster Ave. and Jones St. to Houston St. — which has arguably the most going on right now.
Keep reading for some notable projects:
Texas A&M-Fort Worth
This three-phase, 3.5-acre project has broken ground. Ultimately, it will be the “anchor campus for a technology and innovation district,” spanning three buildings, four city blocks + greenspace. Phase 1 is an eight-story, $185 million Law and Education building, which is on track to be finished in December 2025.
How it reshapes downtown: In addition to pulling in new students and faculty, the campus adds a prominent higher education player in Fort Worth for years to come.
Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown Hotel
The hotel was recently transformed as part of a $50 million renovation project, and now features new meeting rooms, conference amenities, a private lounge on the 10th floor, and a 200-seat (including 40 bartop seats) West + Stone restaurant.
How it reshapes downtown: The hotel affords Fort Worth more opportunity to attract conventions, and the $50 million signifies a major brand betting on the city.
Convention Center upgrades
The city passed a 2% hotel occupancy tax hike earlier this month, which will be used to fund Convention Center improvements.
How it reshapes downtown: The improvements aim to prompt tourism capital and potentially better walkability between downtown and South Main Street.
Water Gardens upgrade
In March, City Council approved a $366,877 contract with Freese and Nichols to evaluate infrastructure in the 50-year-old landmark. A $6.5 million final design could be funded through the 2022 bond project.
How it reshapes downtown: A revamped source of beauty in downtown would be a nice balance visually + for residents and city guests.
Stay tuned for most downtown development in future articles, including the Omni expansion.
Locations Mentioned: Fort Worth Convention Center, Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown Hotel, Texas A&M Fort Worth, Water Gardens Place