At a public meeting held on August 20 at Prairie Vista Middle School, Fort Worth Transportation & Public Works officials gave residents a detailed update on the Heritage Trace Parkway Phase 1 project. The design is now about 60 % complete, moving the city closer to breaking ground on a new north‑Fort Worth arterial that will improve local traffic flow and support upcoming development.
Project scope and funding
The $35 million roadway is being financed through a combination of the city’s 2022 and 2026 bond programs, impact fees, and contributions from private developers. The road will run east‑to‑west, beginning at Wagley Robertson Road and terminating at Beltmill Parkway. It will provide direct access to the Rosewood at Beltmill subdivision on the south side and an under‑construction data center on the north side.
Design details
Heritage Trace Parkway will be a 0.8‑mile divided arterial with four lanes, built to accommodate a future expansion to six lanes. The posted speed limit will be 35 mph. The design includes a bridge over a creek, upgraded drainage, street lighting, shared‑use paths, a raised median, and clear pavement markings. Intersections will feature stop signs rather than traffic signals, a decision the city explained in response to a resident’s question.
Right‑of‑way acquisition
The city’s presentation identified 34 property owners—both businesses and private citizens—who will be affected by the required right‑of‑way. No negotiations have yet begun. Fort Worth retains the power of eminent domain, also known as condemnation, to acquire land for public benefit. The process is governed by Chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code and Chapter 2206 of the Texas Government Code, which require that any taking be for a genuine public use and not a pretext for private gain.
Construction timeline
Officials estimate that construction will start in the summer of 2027, with the project reaching completion in the fall of 2028. The phased approach allows the city to coordinate with the data center developer and the Rosewood at Beltmill subdivision, ensuring that the new roadway serves both residential and commercial needs.
Community response
Attendees at the meeting voiced a mix of support and concern. Many praised the anticipated reduction in congestion on nearby streets and the added connectivity for the growing north‑Fort Worth area. Others asked about the impact on property owners and the timeline for eminent‑domain negotiations. City officials reiterated their commitment to transparent communication and promised to keep the public informed as the project moves forward.
What’s next?
Fort Worth will continue to hold public meetings as the design progresses and right‑of‑way negotiations begin. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, review upcoming meeting notices, and provide feedback through the city’s official channels. The Heritage Trace Parkway is poised to become a vital link in the city’s transportation network, supporting both current traffic demands and future growth.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
