Downtown Fort Worth parks move closer to revitalization with major funding from BNSF Railway Foundation

Fort Worth, Texas – The BNSF Railway Foundation has pledged $1 million to Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives Inc. (DFWII) to help fund the redevelopment of the Heritage and Paddock parks project. This major investment moves the city closer to transforming two historic parks into vibrant public spaces for all to enjoy.

Located just north of the Tarrant County Courthouse, the two adjacent parks are set to undergo a full redesign and renovation. Planned improvements include new water features, lighting, elevated accessible walkways, seating areas, play equipment, landscaping, educational displays, public art installations, performance spaces, and pedestrian-friendly upgrades.

“These parks will bring people back to where Fort Worth began. From the top of the bluff to the river, these public spaces will be reclaimed for everyone to enjoy,” said Mayor Mattie Parker.

A Vision Rooted in History

The inspiration for the project stems from the late Ruth Carter Stevenson, who rallied civic leaders to address the long-closed Heritage Plaza. Heritage Plaza, designed by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has remained closed since 2007 for safety reasons.

Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives Inc., in partnership with the City of Fort Worth, is leading the design efforts. The project design team is carefully working to respect Halprin’s original vision, including plans to enhance Weatherford and Belknap streets for pedestrians, revitalize Paddock Park north of the courthouse, and build a new bluff-traversing path connecting downtown to the river. Additional gathering areas, performance spaces, utilities, and amenities are also being planned.

Moving Forward

The overall fundraising goal for the Heritage and Paddock parks project is $55 million. Thanks to the BNSF Foundation’s contribution, the current fundraising total now stands at about $44 million. A construction start in 2026 or 2027 will depend on the success of ongoing fundraising, final design approvals, and regulatory processes.

“Heritage and Paddock parks are city and county open space gems in the rough,” said project fundraising co-chair Louise Appleman. “This project will transform the north end of downtown by converting unused park land into beautiful, active spaces for residents, visitors and guests to enjoy. These gems, once polished, will be new Fort Worth attractions that share our story, showcase our topography and create joyful memories for everyone.”