Economic Development
I see quality economic development as the key to continued job growth, increased property values, new commercial and residential growth, and improved lifestyle. In its most basic terms, it represents the importation of new dollars into our communities.
We’ve been fortunate in Northeast Tarrant County with continued growth and a somewhat stable business climate. I believe this has happened because our cities and our citizens have demanded a higher level of quality concerning development.
When you demand quality, you receive long-term value. We have had numerous major corporate investments in Northeast Tarrant County which include:
- Fidelity Investments - 2,500 new jobs
- Deloitte University - 800 new jobs
- CINRAM – 500 new jobs
- Blue Cross Blue Shield - 300 new jobs
- Retail development that are attracting massive crowds include:
- Legoland (Grapevine Mills Mall)
- SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium (Grapevine Mills Mall)
Most cities in Precinct 3 are experiencing a stable commercial base. The Hurst Euless Bedford area has major retail projects progressing, and the new Hurst Conference Center is attracting a wide range of events.
The Town Center projects in Southlake, Colleyville, Keller and North Richland Hills are doing well. Keller and Watauga have moved ahead with new retail projects. And certainly Grapevine continues to benefit from the commercial giant they have created in retail/tourism around the Gaylord Opryland Hotel, Great Wolf Lodge and Grapevine Mills. North Fort Worth, with the Alliance corridor, is one of the fastest growth areas in the entire United States.
Our Economic Development Department works with all cities in Precinct 3 to help facilitate bringing new or expanded business opportunities to our area. We believe that a potential user needs to fit the demographics of the area they choose to operate in. Quality and stability are the important factors we look at when assisting any relocation.
Gary Fickes