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.

Heritage Plaza will include historic restoration, upgraded water features, and new landscaping and lighting. | Renderings courtesy of Downtown Fort Worth

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

Construction on Phase 1 of the Convention Center began in August 2022. | Rendering via the City of Fort Worth

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:

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.