Fort Worth ISD moving to new HQ at Camp Bowie Blvd

Fort Worth, Texas - Three years after the sale of Fort Worth ISD's former administrative office, the district is moving to a new headquarters at 7060 Camp Bowie Blvd, Dallas Metro News reported. This move has faced financial challenges.

The new administrative building, which spans 140,000 square feet on a 12-acre site, cost about $40 million. This cost is more than initially estimated. Historically, this building hosted institutions like the Applied Learning Academy and International Newcomer Academy.

Mike Naughton, the executive director of facilities planning and operations, stated that $1,994,880 was spent to clear the interior of the building. An additional amount of approximately $38,053,802 was allocated for extensive renovations. These costs exceeded the previously envisioned $37 million. Contrary to previous estimates, Naughton reported the project as “currently under budget” and mentioned that final financial evaluations would be available after all renovation contracts are settled.

The district purchased this building in 1998. Before relocating to Camp Bowie, Fort Worth ISD's staff operated from 100 N. University Drive, which was sold for $5 million in 2020. During the transition, the district paid approximately $600,000 annually in leasing costs.

In a 2022 board meeting, Camille Rodriguez, the current board president, expressed concerns about the renovation's financial implications. She recently visited the new facility and described it as “nice,” adding, “The community would like the new building.”

Mike Naughton mentioned that the former administrative building had significant issues, including limited parking and HVAC problems. The new facility, on the other hand, offers over 300 parking spaces with potential for expansion.

The design of the new building promotes collaboration. Cissy Mattingly, the building overseer, mentioned, “Departments that frequently work together will now have adjacent offices.”

Board President Rodriguez announced a change in the meeting location for the board. From October, meetings will take place at the Camp Bowie facility, replacing the current venue at 1050 Bridgewood Drive.

Naughton indicated that while the Camp Bowie project was initially set to finish on July 31, 2023, it has been extended to August to ensure continuous district services.

By the end of the month, district personnel will complete their transition. Final touches, such as paintwork and the installation of glass partitions, are underway.

Credit: Dallas Metro News, Fort Worth Report