Fort Worth City Council redirects funds to support African American Museum and Cultural Center renovations

Fort Worth, Texas – The Fort Worth City Council has approved reallocating $40,000 to support construction and renovations for the Fort Worth African American Museum and Cultural Center. The decision reflects the city’s continued commitment to fostering cultural understanding and uplifting historically significant narratives within the community.

From Feasibility Study to Brick and Mortar

The funds, originally allocated in 2022 for a feasibility and site evaluation study, were part of early efforts to explore the potential development of a museum celebrating African American history in Fort Worth. However, the museum’s nonprofit organization has since moved forward, acquiring two building units totaling 5,000 square feet at 3100 and 3104 E. Rosedale Street in east Fort Worth. With the site now secured, the need for the original study has been eliminated.

As a result, the council voted to redirect the existing funds toward building renovations, ensuring the money is put to immediate use in developing the cultural institution’s physical presence.

Safeguards in Place to Ensure Accountability

“The funding shift serves a public purpose by supporting the preservation of African American history and culture, including the stories of African Americans in Fort Worth.” City officials emphasized that the museum must provide documentation of eligible expenses, and oversight provisions are included to ensure funds are used as intended.

This decision marks a significant milestone in the progress of the Fort Worth African American Museum and Cultural Center, which seeks to educate, inspire, and foster greater community understanding through its exhibitions and programming. As construction begins, the museum moves closer to becoming a permanent space dedicated to honoring the African American experience in Fort Worth.