FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- The Camp Bowie District is launching an economic development plan designed to create a healthier economic structure, drive investment and growth to Camp Bowie and result in an improved tax base and growth in property values.
“We believe that with these additional resources we will be able to give our property owners, businesses and members intel that they otherwise would not have access to,” said Wade G. Chappell, executive director of the Camp Bowie District. “Our aim is to build a stronger business community for today and tomorrow.”
Chappell mentioned the challenging year for small businesses and growth along Camp Bowie, but said that with the completion of a rebranding campaign and the launch of the Strategic Economic Development Plan, “we are setting the course for success.”
The plan includes two aspects. The first will conduct an economic analysis of the Camp Bowie district to identify key opportunities and threats to Camp Bowie’s economy and help protect businesses. The second part will focus on creating an improved vision of the commercial corridor.
The district is working with Buxton, a firm that is conducting an economic analysis. After months of data collection, Camp Bowie District will be able to provide property and business owners with crucial market research data.
“As Fort Worth and its economy bounce back from the pandemic, the economic structure will continue to evolve as we adjust to the new normal,” said Mark Harris, Camp Bowie board member and economic development committee member. “By actively staying ahead and understanding the economic landscape of Camp Bowie Boulevard, we can fulfill tactics that will increase the economic opportunity for businesses and property owners in the district.”
Camp Bowie Boulevard’s historic assets place the district in a position to compete with its peer districts while repositioning itself to attract and retain new and old audiences. Building on a well-established lineup of merchants, the strategic plan will position the district to compete with peers such as the Near Southside, the Stockyards and Clearfork.
Consistent with the City of Fort Worth’s economic goals, the design of the plan ensures it can retain existing Camp Bowie businesses and create opportunities for smart development and complementary businesses.
