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Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. (DFWI)
Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc. (DFWII)
In the early 1980s, Fort Worth began the urban revitalization of its Downtown Central Business District. The goal for Downtown was to be a center city bustling with activity morning, noon and night, both during the work week and on weekends. To provide a private sector voice for this revitalization effort, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. (DFWI) was established by a handful of concerned property owners in December 1981.
Now in its 26th year of service, is an advocate for Downtown progress and excellence. This membership-based organization has contributed to Downtown Fort Worth’s vitality by serving as a liaison, ombudsman and information source for property owners, developers and prospective businesses.
Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. expanded its management role in 1986 by establishing Fort Worth Public Improvement District #1 (PID). Through a contract with the City of Fort Worth, the PID provides enhanced services to 260 blocks within Downtown Fort Worth. These services include maintenance and landscaping, promotions and marketing, security enhancement, transportation and planning.
In 1988, Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc. (DFWII) was formed. This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization provides a pathway for foundation grants, philanthropic donations and other contributions to help fund charitable, educational and public-purpose Downtown projects. DFWII was a central partner in the development of the 172-unit Hillside apartment community. The organization manages Burnett Park and produces the MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival and Sundance Square Parade of Lights.
In 1995, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. championed the creation of the Downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District. The TIF District is managed by Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. through a contract with the City of Fort Worth. Among its many projects, the TIF provides thousands of free parking spaces after 5 pm on weekdays and all day and evening on the weekends.
Through the programs of Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., members take an active role in the management of, and advocacy for, the center city. Several standing committees and special task forces work to fulfill the organization’s mission of creating a vibrant, healthy and attractive center in which to work, live and play.
Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc. presents a number of events annually, including the MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival and the Sundance Square Parade of Lights. Together, these events serve to raise aesthetic values, provide sponsorship income opportunities, create opportunities for community involvement and raise the overall quality of promotional activities in downtown while working collaboratively with downtown businesses and residents.
Downie Productions, Inc.
Downie Productions, Inc. produces the MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival, having produced the event from 1995 - 1999, and again from 2003 to present. We are pleased to be a part of such a great event. We also produce the
Chesapeake Energy Parade of Lights on the Friday after Thanksgiving.