West and Clear’s 2008 in review #3: Fort Worth development continues

by Steve Smith of West and Clear

Yes, the economy is in the crapper. Foreclosures are up and home sales are down. But in spite of this grim news, a number of noteworthy construction projects are under way that will dramatically change the Fort Worth landscape.

Although Kevin Buchanan at Fort Worthology usually is the authority on these matters, here is a brief overview of some of 2008’s highlights:

* The Kimbell Museum addition: Renzo Piano’s addition to Louis Kahn’s venerable design was unveiled in November.

The new building will be built on the west lawn across from the Kimbell’s main entrance. It will be 90,000 square feet, with more than 1/4 of that used for exhibition space. It will also feature an underground, 125-space parking garage, a 315-seat auditorium, and a wing featuring offices, studios, and a cafe.

* The TRV is unleashed: Whether you see the Trinity River Vision as a visionary plan or a lavish boondoggle, it is happening. The first demolition began in July, and the Corps of Engineers gave the project the green light in September.

* TCC Buys Radio Shack HQ: Tarrant County College threw in the towel on its troubled and controversial new campus and opted to buy the Radio Shack headquarters instead.

* Moving closer to a streetcar system: With the first proposed routes being recommended, Fort Worth is closer to what Mayor Moncrief calls a return to its roots – a new streetcar system.

* Major commercial projects continue: The Omni Hotel nears completion, Museum Place/West 7th chugs ahead and the development on the Near Southside continued.

Of course, on the downside:

* The Brace Building: The historic building at 8th Avenue and Magnolia, known as the Brace Building, is scheduled to come down to make way for a single-story Comerica bank building.

* Heritage Park: Preservation hasn’t been at the forefront of the city’s plans for historic Heritage Park.