Mid City Times

The Evans & Rosedale project in Fort Worth’s Historic Southside is gaining momentum as city leaders express their commitment to the development and the community. During a recent public meeting, District 8 Councilmember Chris Nettles emphasized the goal of moving the development forward.

Robert Sturns, director of Economic Development, highlighted the city's efforts to revitalize the area since the late 1990s, with over $30 million in public investments and community planning. He stressed the importance of a project that respects the historic neighborhood's legacy of Black-owned businesses and aligns with its future goals.

Following the termination of the contract with the previous development team in December 2023, the City of Fort Worth has received interest from 14 to 15 developers. To expedite the selection process, an abbreviated Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) will be conducted. A selection committee composed of city staff, business organizations, and members of the Historic Southside neighborhood will review the proposals.

The timeline for the project is ambitious, with the RFEI set to be issued in February and responses due by mid-March. A recommendation for a new master developer is expected by April, aiming to break ground in 2025. This timeline aligns with the utilization of remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated for the project.

Community engagement was a significant aspect of the public meeting, with input from James Walker, President of the Historic Southside Neighborhood Association, Opal Lee, Johnny Lewis, and other community members and advocates. Mayor Mattie Parker emphasized the city's history of successful private-public partnerships, citing examples such as Dickie's Arena and the new City Hall. She assured attendees that the Evans & Rosedale project will come to fruition, highlighting the presence of city staff from various departments as a testament to their commitment.

Residents and stakeholders in the Historic Southside are encouraged to participate in the 2024 Evans & Rosedale Community Survey to provide input and prioritize the development's goals. The survey, which will be used as supporting documentation for developers, will remain open until February 15.

The Evans & Rosedale project represents an opportunity for Fort Worth to continue its revitalization efforts and create a development that honors the history and aspirations of the Historic Southside neighborhood. With community input and a dedicated selection process, the city is poised to find a master developer who can bring this vision to life.