In efforts to reach the growing number of families and children residing in the "far north" neighborhoods of Fort Worth, the city council voted to buy a $1.5 million property, located at 4264 Golden Triangle Blvd., to open a new library.
"Far north" Fort Worth makes up one-fifth of the city's population with a total of 122,000 residents and is home to the highest number of families with children in the city.
The new library, which was approved by voters in a 2014 bond program, was originally ratified 16 months ago and is finally moving forward.
The new library and expansion of city services in that area have become important issues in Fort Worth due to the city's successful growth toward Alliance Airport.
"Far north Fort Worth is the fastest-growing part of the city. They deserve their fair share of city resources and city services," District 2 City Councilman Sal Espino said, listing a municipal courthouse or sub-City Hall as the top priorities, along with a new library and community center.
The new library will end the 25-minute drive to the downtown library and will offer a Municipal Court kiosk that allows access to videoconferences, fines and fees, alleviating some stress for far north Fort Worth residents.
Every family deserves the opportunity to check out a good book and have access to a public library's services.
Construction of the property, near North Beach Street, will begin in 2016 and is anticipated to be completed by 2018.
-Brianna Kessler