Artisan News
Fort Worth entertainment district Crockett Row has new name and big reno planned
An entertainment zone in Fort Worth's Cultural District is rebranding. According to a release, the mixed-use urban village formerly known as Crockett Row will heretofore be known as Artisan Circle.
The district is comprised of five blocks in the Southeast quadrant of University Drive and West 7th Street, extending to Foch Street on the east and Morton to the south. The changes come thanks to new ownership: The center was acquired by Younger Partners, a boutique commercial real estate firm based in Dallas, in August 2022.
Along with the new name is a plan to revitalize the property via the addition of gathering spaces, updated signage and lighting, valet stands, and a proposal to close a portion of Crockett Street to improve walkability.
New elevators. The redevelopment will start with the installation of new hydraulic elevators in three of the five parking garages—in the North Central, South Central and Southeast areas. These elevators will provide easier and more efficient access from upper parking levels to shopping and dining destinations.
Valets. In addition, two new valet locations are planned within the North Central and South Central parking garages, ensuring convenient drop-off and pick-up locations for visitors to the central courtyard on Crockett Street.
Outdoor updates. The central courtyard on Crockett Street will undergo extensive hardscape improvements, including the installation of new benches, modernized lighting and lush landscaping. Outdoor dining patios will be redesigned to enhance the overall dining experience.
Lighting and signage. New lighting and wayfinding improvements will be implemented in the central paseos, forging a stronger connection to the central courtyard. The paseos will also feature state-of-the-art digital and interactive directories to guide visitors to shopping and dining destinations, along with new monument and directional signage. In addition, two large-format, outdoor digital displays are proposed on buildings along West 7th and University to showcase local imagery including icons, locations, artists and fine art.
Parking. Real-time parking garage capacity indicators for the 1,500 parking spaces in the development’s five garages will further enhance the visitor experience. Parking is free with validation in all five garages for Artisan Circle patrons.
Security. Prioritizing safety and security, technology upgrades including security cameras and enhanced lighting will be implemented throughout the property.
Street closure. Part of the long-term revitalization plan is a proposed closure of Crockett Street, between Norwood Street and Currie Street, to improve pedestrian access between restaurants and shops around the central courtyard. This initiative will create a safe, walkable gathering area for visitors and a stronger connection to adjacent outdoor dining.
"Artisan Circle is more than just a new name; it’s a symbol of the vibrant transformation and creative changes we are making," says Younger Partners co-managing partner Kathy Permenter in a statement.
"We’re inspired by the beauty and artistry that surrounds us in the Cultural District – from the world-renowned museums to the masterpieces they hold," Permenter says. "Our vision is the advancement of this development and the creation of a vibrant hub where people can gather, dine and explore the heart of Fort Worth’s cultural District."
The area is home to more than 25 dining, wellness, and entertainment options with several openings in the works including Terra Mediterranean, La Cabrona, Si Tapas, and the Rose Couture Nail Bar.
Construction is scheduled to commence in January 2024 and is expected to take 12-18 months to complete.