The Fort Worth Board of Adjustment met on September 16 to consider a slate of development requests affecting neighborhoods across the city. The board acted decisively, approving three variances that will help move the future Baylor Scott & White Health neighborhood hospital in east Fort Worth forward, while also supporting a new school sign and a power‑substation improvement.
Hospital variances approved
The board granted a dumpster enclosure variance, an ambulance canopy variance, and an ambulance‑driveway variance for the hospital site at 2511 Mitchell Blvd., just off U.S. Highway 287. The topography of the parcel requires a setback that leaves insufficient space for a traditional trash enclosure behind the building, prompting the need for a dedicated enclosure. The ambulance entry must be covered, and the board approved a canopy height of 12 feet, which meets the Texas Department of Health Standards for a 24/7 entry route without head‑in parking.
Other approvals and denials
In addition to the hospital variances, the board unanimously approved a new electronic sign for Fort Worth ISD’s Esperanza Elementary, with A&M Signs vice president Michael Cato confirming the sign will match existing district signage.
The board also cleared a height increase request for an Oncor electric power substation at 5903 Sycamore School Road, raising the structure from 45 feet to 65 feet to accommodate a lightning‑deterrent system. This change passed unanimously, reflecting the board’s commitment to reliable utility infrastructure.
Conversely, the board denied a 100 percent driveway‑coverage adjustment sought by property owner Maria Aguilar at 1724 Stalcup Road. Aguilar, who cited parking challenges for her family’s five vehicles and additional equipment, presented a support petition but received only one email of opposition. Board members raised concerns about the lack of green space and the need for a dust‑free, hard‑surface parking area, ultimately rejecting the request without prejudice.
At 3633 Washburn Ave., applicant Cattlemen Homes, represented by Kasie Dudley, sought variances to build new three‑story duplexes with four bedrooms per unit. While one variance was withdrawn, the remaining two were denied after historic‑neighborhood advocate Brenda Helmer of the Arlington Heights Neighborhood Association highlighted flood‑risk concerns.
Finally, the board granted a special‑exception sign for a 7‑Eleven at 701 East Bonds Ranch Road (also known as 311 East Bonds Ranch Road) in Haslet. Owner Chris Edwards of Edwards Sign Service noted the sign will feature a dimmer to adjust brightness, ensuring compliance with local signage standards.
Meeting overview
The Board of Adjustment’s session lasted eight hours and sixteen minutes, resolving a total of 24 cases. The thorough deliberations underscore the board’s role in balancing growth, safety, and community character across Fort Worth.
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Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
