Fort Worth Plans Community Arts Incubator at Former Library Site
Advocates for the arts in Fort Worth are aiming to transform 512 W. 4th Street, which was initially designated for a new Central Library, into a community arts incubator. This initiative has garnered backing from the Fort Worth City Council and prominent figures in the arts sector, such as Wesley Gentle and Bob Jameson, who leads the working group. Councilmembers involved include Deborah Peoples, Macy Hill, Jeanette Martinez, and Elizabeth Beck, alongside Midori Clark. The facility, which once served as the Center for Transforming Lives, features a stage, a community room, and possible artist studios. This development comes after the Fort Worth Community Arts Center at 1300 Gendy is set to close in 2024, requiring $30 million in renovations. A feasibility study for 1300 Gendy is scheduled for July, with community feedback anticipated by fall 2026.
Key facts
- Building at 512 W. 4th Street, Fort Worth, originally purchased for new Central Library.
- Project in early stages with support from Fort Worth City Council and arts leaders.
- Wesley Gentle, Executive Director of Arts Fort Worth, serves on working group.
- Bob Jameson chairs the 512 W. 4th Street Community Arts Working Group.
- Working group includes Councilmembers Deborah Peoples, Macy Hill, Jeanette Martinez, Elizabeth Beck.
- Midori Clark, Fort Worth Public Library Director, will be involved.
- Building formerly occupied by Center for Transforming Lives.
- Plans include artist studios, theater, performance venue, day care.
- Fort Worth Community Arts Center at 1300 Gendy closed in 2024.
- City purchased 512 W. 4th Street after 2022 closure of Central Library.
- Feasibility study for 1300 Gendy building to begin July 2026.
- Arts Fort Worth meeting with City staff on June 15, 2026.
- Recommendations expected in fall 2026.
Entities
Institutions
- Fort Worth City Council
- Arts Fort Worth
- 512 W. 4th Street Community Arts Working Group
- Visit Fort Worth
- Fort Worth Public Library
- Center for Transforming Lives
- Fort Worth Community Arts Center
- Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
- North Texas Community Foundation
- Glasstire
Locations
- Fort Worth
- Texas
- United States
- 512 W. 4th Street, Fort Worth
- 1300 Gendy, Fort Worth