Fort Worth scraps plan for new downtown library location, starts looking elsewhere
The Fort Worth Public Library is turning a new page in its quest for a downtown branch, abandoning its previously chosen site.
Just six weeks after agreeing to a lease with Pescador Partners LTD for 100 Main St., the library department disclosed they are backing out of the lease negotiations for this site. This decision comes despite the City Council sanctioning funds for the lease in September, but no formal contracts were executed, as noted on the city’s official website.
“While both parties were interested in exploring a lease early on, it became apparent that a long-term agreement would not be mutually beneficial,” stated Theresa Davis, a spokesperson for the library.
This 10-year lease would have cost the city $2.14 million, with additional obligations like security services and a proposed $130,000 investment for space enhancements. The city is now seeking a more suitable long-term option, the announcement mentioned.
Funds have been earmarked in the library department’s annual budget for a downtown branch; any new lease agreement will require City Council approval, Davis mentioned.
Without a projected date for a new downtown branch, the city’s property management and library departments are reviewing other potential downtown properties for leasing or buying, according to Davis.
Reed Bilz, an advocate for a comprehensive downtown branch, expressed her desire for the new branch to feature improved parking and an auditorium, qualities absent at the 100 Main St. site, she noted.
The library’s downtown branch was permanently shut down last June. The proposed site at 100 Main St. was notably smaller than the old downtown location, spanning 8,746 square feet across the main floor and basement.
“We are committed to finding the right downtown location,” interim Library Director Marilyn Marvin said in the city’s post. “We want a welcoming location that will be a great environment for downtown residents and visitors for years to come.”
