Mid City Times

The City Council has approved a $400,000 funding allocation for enhancements to the Fort Worth Herd equestrian facilities located in the Stockyards. This initiative aims to ensure the well-being of the Herd’s horses and livestock until new facilities are developed during the second phase of Stockyards development.

According to city officials, "To assure the welfare of the Herd’s horses and livestock until new facilities can be developed as part of the second phase of development in the Stockyards, the City will amend its contract with Visit Fort Worth to fund the public-private partnership." The improvements are intended to serve as a temporary measure until permanent structures are built.

The Fort Worth Herd is known for producing a twice-daily longhorn cattle drive at the Fort Worth Stockyards, celebrating the area's western heritage. Established in 1999, it operates under Visit Fort Worth and receives funding through a $1.7 million operating budget from the City’s Culture and Tourism Fund.

Planned upgrades include covered horse stalls, an operations trailer, security cameras, therapeutic equipment for horses, and a wash rack at 2500 N. Houston St. Funding for these projects comes from Cowtown Coliseum's profits shared with the city.

Additionally, Friends of the Fort Worth Herd will contribute $177,200 towards enhancing livestock facilities at 129 E. Exchange St., which will involve installing onsite covered horse stalls, improving ventilation systems, and repairing fences, gates, and holding areas.

The Fort Worth Herd continues its daily journey through the Stockyards as a tribute to Fort Worth's western traditions.