Public Realm Strategies A variety of Infrastructure and Public Realm Strategies can be deployed to efficiently complete large-scale development projects of significant complexity. While no single tool, approach, or sequencing can be prescribed beyond a project-to-project basis, a combination and collaboration between the developer and City of Fort Worth should ultimately decide the path forward. However, there are tools and mechanisms in place that traditionally serve well for large scale development projects, and they’re generally described below: z Bond Funding (current and future) represents one of the most significant mechanisms for the City to fund Capital Improvement Projects (CIP). Generally, bonds are utilized to fund CIP projects that benefit the community, and if a bond proposition is approved the city is then authorized to sell bonds up to the indicated amount. In 2022, Fort Worth voters approved a $560 Million bond package that included significant improvements to support street and mobility infrastructure, including the East Berry Corridor from IH-35W to US-287, as well as intersection improvements at East Berry Street and Riverside Drive. As a result of this plan and the associated goals, future improvements and projects may be included in upcoming bond elections (2026). z One mechanism intended to promote development or redevelopment within a defined area already exists in relation to the Cobb Park/ Riverside TOD Catalyst Site, a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ). TIF Number 12 seeks to support viable economic redevelopment in southeast Fort Worth by assisting with public infrastructure (sidewalks, water, sewer, storm drainage) associated with mixed-use development or redevelopment. The TIRZ was created in 2006 and has an expiration of December 31, 2027. Most of the funds have been directed at redeveloping Renaissance Heights, the 200-acre Masonic Home greenfield site, but sufficient funds remain for one or two more needed commercial or mixed-use projects. z A significant portion of the study area west of Cobb Park is federally designated as an “Opportunity Zone”, which allows new investments, that meet criteria, to receive preferential tax treatment. The primary benefit for investors is deferred tax payment on capital gains from prior investments. z Rezoning is often a necessity for large scale development projects. The first step in rezoning is establishing a plan to understand the intended uses. Several guiding documents are in place to help communicate the City of Fort Worth’s vision for the future of development throughout the process, including: the Comprehensive Plan, specific Area Plans, Transit Master Plan, amongst others. Working with development partners throughout the planning process can also head off roadblocks or impediments before planning review, and planning commission meetings take place, making for a smoother process. According to the Form-Based Code Institute, “A form-based code is a land development regulation that fosters predictable built results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form (rather than separation of uses) as the organizing principle for the code. A form-based code is a regulation, not a mere guideline, adopted into city, town, or county law.” An alternative to conventional zoning regulations, form-based codes offer a powerful and adaptable avenue to development.
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