City of Fort Worth set to create safer nightlife environments with new certification program

Fort Worth, Texas – Fort Worth is set to launch the Golden Lasso Accreditation, a free and voluntary certification program designed to recognize bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues committed to enhancing safety and ensuring a positive nightlife experience. This initiative is a collaboration between the City of Fort Worth and the Entertainment District Task Force, providing local establishments with formalized safety policies and employee training to increase confidence among patrons and reduce alcohol-related harm.

Addressing Safety Concerns in Entertainment Districts

The Golden Lasso Accreditation stems from ongoing discussions about safety concerns and rising crime rates, particularly in Fort Worth’s West 7th entertainment district during the summer of 2023. As concerns grew, the city formed a steering committee to assess the situation and develop solutions. Four key entertainment districts were identified for the program’s rollout:

• West 7th
• Downtown
• Near Southside-Magnolia
• Stockyards

To ensure a comprehensive approach, the city partnered with SafeNight LLC, a global consulting firm specializing in policing strategies, nightlife management, and economic development. SafeNight LLC was tasked with conducting a Risk Terrain Modeling (RTM) analysis, assessing existing challenges, and developing a voluntary accreditation model that would help improve nightlife safety across the city.

How the Golden Lasso Accreditation Works

The Golden Lasso Accreditation is open to any establishment but is particularly geared toward businesses holding a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) license. The goal is to establish industry standards that promote safe nightlife environments, encourage best practices in alcohol service, and strengthen relationships between business owners, city agencies, state regulators, and local community groups.

This initiative comes after securing $150,000 in funding from public and private sources to conduct the study and implement the accreditation model. Executive Assistant Police Chief Robert Alldredge recently presented the program to the City Council, emphasizing the importance of establishing safer entertainment districts and formalizing industry-wide standards to improve patron confidence and security.

Next Steps for Implementation

As the Golden Lasso Accreditation moves forward, the Fort Worth City Council will draft a resolution to support the program’s intent. Additionally, organizers will collaborate with Visit Fort Worth to help showcase accredited establishments to visitors and residents alike.

Throughout spring 2025, the city will begin recruiting bars and restaurants in all four entertainment districts to participate in the accreditation program. Establishments that enroll will receive guidance on enhancing safety procedures, employee training, and best practices that align with the city’s commitment to “Safety-Branded Entertainment.”

By introducing this initiative, Fort Worth aims to set a new standard for nightlife safety, ensuring that bars, restaurants, and venues not only thrive economically but also provide a secure and welcoming environment for everyone.