Angela Heikennen, a lifelong Fort Worth native and local hairstylist, shares how she came to call the Arlington Heights neighborhood home. Growing up she attended South Hills Elementary, W.P. McLean Middle School and R.L. Paschal High School, moving between her parents’ homes after her parents divorced during her freshman year.
After a stint at Tarleton State University, Angela returned to Fort Worth to study cosmetology at Ogle Beauty School. She married, raised two children, and lived in the north‑Crowley area until 2007. When the neighborhood changed and no longer felt like the community it once was, the family sought a new place to settle.
Why Arlington Heights?
Angela found a house in Arlington Heights, a quiet, centrally located neighborhood that has become her family’s base for the past fifteen years. She describes it as the safest place she has ever lived, day or night. The area’s proximity to four major museums, downtown Fort Worth, 7th Street, Near Southside and The Shops at Clearfork makes it ideal for both cultural outings and everyday errands.
Local favorites such as Curly’s Frozen Custard, where her daughter earned her first job, and Kincaid’s Hamburgers are regular stops for the family. The boutique shops along Camp Bowie Boulevard, walking trails, and well‑maintained parks provide ample opportunities for family recreation.
Family Roots and Community Ties
Angela’s daughter graduated from Arlington Heights High School, and her son and daughter have now given her three grandchildren, with a fourth on the way. The neighborhood’s family‑friendly atmosphere offers plenty of activities for children of all ages.
Beyond personal anecdotes, the article includes demographic data for Arlington Heights: a population of 2,430 residents, 51 % female and 49 % male. The community is predominantly White (91 %), with a median age skewed toward older adults—21 % are 70‑79 years old and 8 % are 80 or older. Educational attainment is high, with 52 % holding bachelor’s degrees and 23 % possessing postgraduate credentials.
Living in the Heart of Fort Worth
Angela emphasizes that Arlington Heights feels central to Fort Worth’s social life while still offering a peaceful residential setting. Its short drive to cultural institutions, shopping districts and downtown makes it a convenient hub for families who value both community safety and access to city amenities.
Her story reflects a broader trend of Fort Worth residents seeking neighborhoods that balance safety, convenience and a strong sense of community—values that resonate with many families across the region.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
