HomeMy WebLinkAbout25-0120 - 2025-11-04 - Informal ReportINFORMAL REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS No. 25-0120
To the Mayor and Members of the City Council November 4, 2025
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SUBJECT: ATHLETIC FIELDS IMPROVEMENT PLAN
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This report provides information on efforts made to better understand and address Fort
Worth's growing demand for athletic fields. Two comprehensive studies were recently
completed. Together, these studies provide a data -driven foundation for future investment in
both sports tourism and community recreation.
The sports tourism study, completed in 2019 and funded by the Fort Worth Sports Authority,
assessed the city's potential in the growing sports tourism market. The study found a strong
opportunity for Fort Worth to attract regional and national tournaments through the
development of a multi -field athletic complex with at least 20 long fields for sports such as
soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and field hockey. It projected an economic impact of approximately
$16 million in new annual spending, generated through tourism -related activities, and
highlighted the city's potential to become a leading sports destination in North Texas.
The local athletic field study was completed in 2024 and previously shared with City Council at
a work session. The study, funded by the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department, evaluated
the city's athletic field inventory and local sports demand, which highlighted a significant
shortage of both long and diamond fields compared to Fort Worth's fast-growing population
and rising participation in organized sports. To address this, a long-term strategy through
2037 was developed to guide the expansion and improvement of athletic fields across the
city, ensuring facilities keep pace with community needs.
To address current shortfalls and capitalize on future opportunities, the city's plan focuses on
strategic investment in both new construction and upgrades to existing facilities. The following
sites have been identified as high -priority projects:
Alliance Park (Council District 10)
The plan calls for completing improvements from the park's master plan, adding 11 new long
fields with lighting and restrooms. These upgrades will establish Alliance Park as a central hub
for community recreation and tournament play in North Fort Worth.
Gateway Park (Council District 11)
Gateway Park should be expanded and upgraded with new and improved long and diamond
ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER FORT WORTH, TEXAS
INFORMAL REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS No. 25-0120
To the Mayor and Members of the City Council November 4, 2025
Page 2 of 3
SUBJECT: ATHLETIC FIELDS IMPROVEMENT PLAN
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fields, enhanced access, restrooms, and lighting. Its central location makes it ideal for local
leagues and regional tournaments, strengthening Fort Worth's athletic infrastructure.
Rolling Hills Park (Council District 8)
Rolling Hills Park is recommended to include renovated and new athletic fields, along with
additional parking, restrooms, lighting, and drainage. These improvements will increase
opportunities to host regional and national tournaments and serve the growing recreation
needs of Fort Worth residents.
West Park (Council District 3)
At West Park, the City will repair and expand existing facilities, adding both long and diamond
fields with upgraded infrastructure, as recommended in the park master plan. The project will
boost participation, support event hosting, and improve recreational access for west -side
residents.
New Diamond Complex (Proposed)
The plan recommends the city acquire land for a new complex with at least eight diamond
fields of varying sizes. Developed in partnership with local and regional sports organizations,
the facility will relieve field shortages and enhance Fort Worth's capacity to host baseball and
softball tournaments.
The total investment required to complete all recommended improvements is estimated at
$82.35 million. To ensure financial feasibility, the plan proposes a two-phase funding strategy
through upcoming bond programs.
Phase 1- 2026 Bond Program ($48 million)
This phase will focus on critical upgrades and high -impact projects that address the most
immediate needs:
1. West Park - $3 million
2. Alliance Park - $10 million
ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER FORT WORTH, TEXAS
INFORMAL REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
No. 25-0120
To the Mayor and Members of the City Council
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SUBJECT: ATHLETIC FIELDS IMPROVEMENT PLAN
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3. Gateway Park - $25 million (a portion to be used for fields)
4. Rolling Hills Park - $10 million
Phase 2 - 2030 Bond Program (Estimated $40-50 million)
November 4, 2025
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The second phase would complete remaining improvements at the parks listed above and
fund the development of a new diamond complex, contingent upon successful land
acquisition. This phase would further enhance Fort Worth's ability to meet local demand and
attract major sports tourism opportunities.
Should you have any questions regarding this report, please contact Park & Recreation
Department Director Dave Lewis at 817-392-5717.
Jesus "Jay" Chapa
City Manager
ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER FORT WORTH, TEXAS