SurplusPopulation

My wife and I stayed in an AirBnB in the condos across the street from those bars last year. Walked to see the bats, had some drinks and dinner on and around 6th, and finishing there. Pretty cool.

I don't mind this building's design, but I'm extremely excited that it is being built and about its location. Overall, I'm a little burned out on the current style of 'blocky' architecture (don't know what it's really called) that we see on most new 'urban' structures. But as far as that style is concerned I think it's alright.

I know that I might be in the minority here, and that it's mostly a style preference thing, but I recently went to eat at Klyde Warren Park and I do not care for it nearly as much as Sundance Plaza. It feels cold and overly modern while I like warmer more traditional styles. Plus there's not much diversity in my opinion. I know the same can be said for the buildings around Sundance but I happen to like those plus there's some historic ones.

And finally it's not nearly as easy to get around down there and find your way like it is in Fort Worth. Nothing against what they're doing. I'm glad it's working for them but I'm not a huge fan.

Maybe someone has already suggested this, but why not open up the Lancaster side to create an entry plaza with a fountain similar to the one in Sundance? Would give the kids somewhere to play.

I totall agree with the city's concerns and think that needs to be ironed out if they want government help.

I personally don't mind the slow, methodical of Fort Worth's development. I wish the surrounding towns / suburbs grew slowly too. The faster and crazier things grow the quicker a city loses it's personality. My wife went to college in Austin and loved it. She's been back here for 5 years and says the personality of the city is already getting watered down by all the Californians and 'Yankees' that are moving in. But I guess their skyline does look nice.

I'll take our small town / big city feel.

If they are going to be building so many of these around DFW can we get one among Magnolia?

Anybody see the Star-Telegram article about this? I just saw it but can't post it right now.

I think Cheesecake Factory is the perfect option for downtown, especially in that location. I know there will be those who only want an independent place but those are better suited for the Magnolia or South Main. Cheesecake Factory will bring a LOT of people and finally create some consistent activity facing the Bass Hall. Plus, as a father of three, I've said many times I wish there were some more affordable options in Sundance. While their meals are pricey, they are more working-class pricey, instead of steak-house, Mercedes driving pricey. Plus with a huge appetizer and dessert menu people will be able to grab something small and spend more time in and around downtown without having to spend a fortune.

I know I sound like a huge Cheesescake Factory cheerleader, but honestly I've never eaten a meal there. I just know how people within my sphere of influence talk about it and how ridiculous the crowds always are at those places.

This is a win for Sundance.

I am not as threatened by these rules as some of you seem to be. I agree with John that if this was city owned it would still be a couple of parking lots.

In regard to the plaza closing at night I wonder if any of that is intended to keep homeless people from camping out there over night.

Also, in regard to the 'heavy-handed' policies of the Basstapo I for one am grateful that they are in place. One of the things I brag about is how safe downtown Fort Worth is all times day or night. I feel comfortable meeting my wife there, even if she has to walk several blocks by herself from where she parks. I would not feel as comfortable with it in downtown Dallas or many other large cities. Without the Basstapo that wouldn't be as true.

Any pictures from up there, John?

As someone who does not have the income to live near downtown, and with my kids living in Duncanville and my job by DFW Airport, I cringe when I read about 'traffic taming'. I understand the thought behind that concept, but it is something that benefits the 'haves' instead of the 'have-nots'... the 'have-nots' being the folks whose lives have been dictated by American culture for generations. I didn't choose to have to live in my car, but my reality is my reality, and it frustrates me when others who have different circumstances start making decisions to 'force' me to adjust to or change in order to accomodate them.

 

I know this little rant may seem random, but I've bitten my tongue plenty of times when this conversation has taken place. I get WHY y'all have these ideas, and why they seem ideal to you, but this is MY Fort Worth too. I was born here, raised here, spent my childhood and highschool and college years in downtown, cultural district, and TCU area. 'Calming' or 'taming' me into not realistically being able to enjoy these areas is frustrating.

 

Just my two cents... and a little off topic.