Mosier Valley, Tarrant County’s first freedmen’s town and an early all-Black community in Texas, is one step closer to preserving its history. The Fort Worth Zoning Commission on Wednesday denied an application for an industrial site in the neighborhood, which is located between Euless and Arlington.

Community Opposition

Residents, including Jeff Pointer, chair of the Mosier Valley Property Owners Association, opposed the project, citing concerns about noise, disturbances, and congestion from nearby industrial sites. Pointer emphasized the importance of protecting the historic freedmen’s town, stating, ‘We cannot let them erase our community. We just want to preserve our story.’

Russell Newton, a resident who lives in one of the first new homes built in Mosier Valley in decades, also expressed opposition to the project. He mentioned that large tractor-trailers are often left parked near homes, causing disturbances and congestion.

Zoning Commission Decision

Commissioner Tammy Pierce said the city should deny the application, citing the need to maintain the quality and historic value of Mosier Valley. The commission ultimately approved a related request for residential housing, which will allow for the construction of one home on a 1-acre tract of land.

The zoning commission’s decision is a significant step towards preserving the history and character of Mosier Valley. As the community continues to grow and develop, it is essential to balance progress with the need to protect its rich cultural heritage.

Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.