Mid City Times

The City Council of Fort Worth is set to consider a proposal to introduce a new chapter in the city's code aimed at establishing guidelines for managing the city's Open Space properties. The proposed Chapter 36 will draw heavily from Chapter 24, which governs Park and Recreation, but it will be tailored specifically to meet the objectives of the city's Open Space Conservation Program and related initiatives.

City staff has recommended this new chapter to align with efforts such as the Mayor’s Good Natured Greenspace Initiative and the broader goal of adding 10,000 acres of open greenspace to Fort Worth over the next five years. According to city officials, "Open Space is not parkland and is not owned, held or claimed as a public square or park, nor is Open Space acquired or designated as a park, recreation area, scientific area, wildlife refuge or historic site."

Chapter 36 will include specific rules for maintaining these areas. The Park & Recreation Department will manage Open Space properties in their natural state. Mowing activities will be limited and conducted with an eye toward ecological health and fire prevention. Unlike traditional parks, these spaces are expected to offer minimal amenities since their primary purpose is conservation. As such, they will operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis without trash receptacles or restrooms. Bicycles will only be allowed on paved paths to protect natural trails and vegetation.

City staff plans to seek approval from the City Council for this new chapter later in the fall.

Fort Worth's commitment to preserving open space was exemplified by its purchase of 50 acres of prairieland known as Broadcast Hill in east Fort Worth back in 2020.