Mid City Times

The City of Fort Worth has announced a pause on the Trinity River Waterwheel Initiative due to funding uncertainties. The initiative, which began in December 2021, aimed to construct and install a waterwheel in the Trinity River. The project was a collaborative effort between the City of Fort Worth, Tarrant Regional Water District, and Streams & Valleys Inc.

The estimated cost for the construction and purchase of the waterwheel is $1.9 million. As of August 31, there remains a funding gap of approximately $500,000 despite contributions from donors and project partners. This shortfall is attributed to increased costs of materials and labor since the project's inception.

The design phase of the Waterwheel project is complete, and it will remain ready for future construction once additional funding becomes available. Donations are secure, but donors have options to receive full refunds or redirect their contributions to other anti-litter initiatives through Keep Fort Worth Beautiful.

City staff will reach out to all donors regarding their preferences and continue seeking grants or large donations. Should new funding opportunities arise, the City plans to revisit the initiative.

Sponsors or donors with questions can email environmental@fortworthtexas.gov or contact Keep Fort Worth Beautiful at 817-392-2046. For media inquiries, Environmental Services Communications Coordinator Lola McCartney or City of Fort Worth Media Relations can be contacted.

A waterwheel collects and removes trash and debris from a river’s surface using hydropower or solar power, containment booms, and a conveyor belt system.

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