Proposed Zoning Changes Could Spur Mixed-Use Growth on East Lancaster Avenue in Fort Worth

Fort Worth is considering zoning changes that would open business properties along East Lancaster Avenue, between North Beach Street and South Ayers Avenue, to denser mixed-use residential and retail projects. Existing businesses could continue operating under conditional use permits, according to city officials.

Trinity Metro's vice president of economic development, Mike Brennan, who previously led Near Southside Inc., is pushing transit-oriented development around rail stations and other sites, including the Dr. Dennis Dunkins Transfer Center. He points to the corridor's high bus ridership as a reason to invest.

The Texas Department of Transportation plans to start reconstructing the road from Interstate 35W to Dottie Lynn Parkway in 2027, with completion expected in 2030. The project includes stormwater upgrades, wider sidewalks and signals supporting a rapid bus route. Recent private activity includes the $65 million, 243-unit Palladium City Skyline affordable complex, which opened earlier this year, and an 81-unit affordable project under construction near Lancaster and Meaders Avenue.

The area also falls within a public improvement district, and city crews recently demolished a motel under a nuisance enforcement program. Residents are proposing six named districts tied to the historic interurban rail system.

For developers and lenders, the rezoning would shift the corridor's permitted uses, so site-level feasibility should be checked against the final ordinance text.