At a recent Community Development Committee meeting, Fort Worth’s Neighborhood Services Department detailed the city’s ongoing work to tackle the housing affordability crisis. The department has now completed or started 36 of the 41 recommendations outlined in the Neighborhood Conservation Plan and Housing Affordability Strategy, a comprehensive roadmap launched in early 2025.
Progress on the Neighborhood Conservation Plan
The plan’s 17 recommendations focus on revitalizing distressed neighborhoods. Sixteen of those items have been started or finished, including a city‑wide inventory of vacant residential lots and the development of a database to identify undeveloped parcels for new homes. The Open Space Conservation Program, another key initiative, has secured more than 500 acres of natural land to ensure equitable access for low‑income communities.
The only recommendation still pending is the Neighborhood Strategy Revitalization Areas provision, which would give the city flexibility to use Community Development Block Grant funds for accelerated neighborhood improvement. Director Kacey Thomas said the department has identified target areas such as Las Vegas Trail and Woodhaven and expects to move forward within the next few years.
Housing Affordability Strategy gains momentum
Of the 24 recommendations in the Housing Affordability Strategy, 20 are already in motion. A $10 million bond approved by voters provides additional city investment for affordable housing projects. The Fort Worth Housing Finance Corporation has acquired six tax‑foreclosed properties for residential development, and the city continues to purchase at‑risk parcels to prevent foreclosures.
Four recommendations remain untouched: extending property‑tax assistance to low‑income homeowners, expanding the Texas Eviction Diversion Program, encouraging accessory dwelling units, and acquiring Federal Housing Administration loan‑default properties. Council member Deborah Peoples expressed disappointment that the eviction diversion program has been dissolved, noting the rise in evictions.
City resources supporting renters and homeowners
Thomas highlighted several funding streams the department is leveraging. Money from the Texas Veterans Commission assists residents with rent and mortgage payments, while HUD emergency rental assistance funds help families facing sudden housing loss. Additional support comes from the Housing Finance Corporation and HOME grant programs, which fund new affordable‑housing construction.
Looking ahead: middle‑housing and zoning clarity
Council member Charlie Lauersdorf asked for clarification on the city’s approach to “middle housing” – townhomes, duplexes and four‑plexes – and how zoning classifications will enable developers to build these options. Thomas responded that a pattern book of pre‑approved designs is in development, along with a study to determine the city’s specific housing needs.
Going forward, the department will prioritize recommendations, identify items that cannot be completed within the five‑year horizon, suggest modifications where needed, and coordinate with other city agencies to ensure ongoing tracking and implementation.
Community impact
Fort Worth residents and local partners have praised the city’s proactive stance. By keeping the report off the shelf and turning recommendations into tangible actions, the administration demonstrates a commitment to preserving strong neighborhoods, supporting families, and upholding the values that make Fort Worth a thriving community.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
