Historic Fort Worth Public Market Ready to Lease With New Partnership
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The work of reviving the Fort Worth Public Market has been underway for more than a year, and now that work is going beyond construction.
Woodmont Company, a Fort Worth-based commercial real estate firm has partnered with Wilks Development, the group behind the revival, to begin leasing the Fort Worth Public Market, a downtown landmark since 1930. Wilks Development, a Fort Worth-based real estate development and investment company, has been renovating the historic market at 1400 Henderson St.
“The retail leasing is underway,” said Nicole Ellis, Wilks Development communications director. “We envision having a handful of retail stores along the east side of the building, with windows and doors facing Henderson St., while in the center, we would love to see a restaurant and a small coffee shop.”
A Vibrant Mix
A “vibrant mix or retail and restaurant businesses” is what the developer is seeking for the revitalization of the long-abandoned public market. Wilks Development broke ground on the renovation a year ago — on the building’s 93rd anniversary, June 20. The price tag is an estimated $54 million.
“As a Fort Worth-based outfit, Woodmont understands what this building means to the city,” said Jess Green, project lead and senior vice president of Wilks Development, in a written statement. “Coupled with their vast in-market knowledge, we know they will help us craft the perfect combination of tenants to make this a dynamic destination that will bring the Fort Worth community together, just like the building once did.”
The Fort Worth Public Market, designed by B. Gaylord Noftsger, opened to the public June 20, 1930. The building features a multi-colored tile roof and an 85-foot central tower accented with terracotta columns and pilasters. Built by Oklahoma native John J. Harden, the structure under renovation will include an adjacent 199-unit senior living apartment tower, which will be named The Harden, in memory of the builder.
“With the Harden situated directly behind the public market building and our proximity to 7th Street, Magnolia, and Downtown, we are confident that our tenants will benefit from the high foot traffic and bustling activity, making it an ideal location for any business,” Green stated.
Honoring Its History
David Adams, senior vice president of the Woodmont Company, thinks reviving the Fort Worth Public Market is about more than creating a lively community destination. He wants it to honor the site’s unique history.
“When completed, the Public Market will be a gathering place where past and present converge,” Adams said in a written statement.
Wilks Development was founded in 2012 by brothers Kyle and Josh Wilks, along with Green, their cousin. The Woodmont Company, launched in 1980, provides international real estate services including leasing, property management, investment sales, development, and tenant representation.
