The Panther Island project, a long-awaited redevelopment plan for Fort Worth’s Northside, is moving forward. The Tarrant Regional Water District has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to partners interested in starting new development projects on 20 acres off of North Main Street and the entire district. Proposals are due November 26.
The water district believes there will be high demand for the project, given the community’s anticipation. They have prepared infrastructure ready for progress, and their action is one of several events pushing the complicated project forward.
A city-initiated zoning change is expected to widen building heights in part of the Panther Island district on October 21. Updates to “form-based codes” will encourage densely populated, walkable environments.
Construction on the north channel is set to start late next year and be completed by 2029. Removing river levees will open land for development once the bypass channel is complete. However, obtaining federal funding will take over 10 years.
The water district has earmarked up to $50 million for canal construction, paseos, and park improvements starting in 2026. Design is 30% complete for these projects, with city funding allocated for street design and bridges.
Development on Panther Island is crucial for the Trinity River Vision Tax Increment Finance District’s performance, which generates money for public infrastructure based on future growth.
The project will move forward with a focus on gaining momentum now, despite the pace of obtaining federal funding.
Source: https://fortworthreport.org/2025/10/16/1017-nishimura-pantherisland