Fort Worth's Panther Island Set for Transformation, Public Parks, Housing and Economic Growth in Store
March 6,2024
See full Hoodline article by Margie Townsend here.
Fort Worth's waterfront is poised to undergo a major transformation with a fresh vision for the Panther Island project, according to new details shared by consulting firm HR&A Advisors. The proposed transformation seeks to turn Panther Island into a vibrant, one-of-a-kind waterfront district complete with public parks, open spaces, and a mix of residential and commercial properties. This vision was presented to the Fort Worth City Council and the Tarrant Regional Water District, aiming to revitalize the area just outside of downtown Fort Worth. "We’re looking to build a community," said Cary Hirschstein, an executive at HR&A, "a place that celebrates Fort Worth’s diverse heritage and becomes an economic driver," in a statement obtained by the Star-Telegram.
The redevelopment project, which has been decades in the making, is set to finally start to take shape following years of controversies and funding setbacks. "That really is a tipping point to get us to where the construction is now inevitable, it's going to happen," Tarrant Regional Water District general manager Dan Buhman told CBS News. The project received a significant boost with the allocation of $403 million in federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, with construction due to begin in 2025.
The ambitious plan not only spells out new zoning changes and land developments but also sets forth six guiding principles for the island's development, including the creation of a regional destination and a celebration of Fort Worth’s diverse heritage. Hirschstein emphasized the need to inclusively connect various areas of the city, transforming Panther Island from a mere pass-through locale into a bustling community hub. Furthermore, the plan includes provisions to help residents of gentrifying neighborhoods remain in their homes, with suggestions for affordable housing requirements and the expansion of the city’s priority home repair program.
In line with the vision for an accessible waterfront district, approximately 50 acres of Panther Island will be dedicated to public open spaces, as noted in the presentation to city officials. This decision underscores an emphasis on enhancing the quality of life and property values alike—echoing findings that areas surrounding parks such as Dallas' Klyde Warren Park saw a 40% increase in land value post-development. The comprehensive vision aims to strategically balance swift development with thorough planning to ensure the long-term success of Panther Island. Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker reinforced the significance of community input in the planning process, stating optimism about the positive outcomes the development could yield for the entire city, according to the Star-Telegram.
Looking forward, the city of Fort Worth and the Tarrant Regional Water District will need to continue to conduct meetings to update zoning codes, which are integral to the successful materialization of Panther Island’s vision. With the new concept laid on the table, Fort Worth's citizens can anticipate a transformed waterfront that not only reflects the city's identity but also provides a blueprint for its economic and societal growth for decades to come.
Location Mentioned: Panther Island Pavilion