Fort Worth on the Rise: Aviation, Custard, and Cattlemen's

Good morning, this is Fort Worth Local Pulse for Thursday, July 17, 2025. Starting off, we’ve had some major recognition for our city this week. Governor Abbott just officially named Fort Worth as the Aviation and Defense Capital of Texas. Local leaders say it’s a nod to our growing impact in those industries and could mean more jobs and investment in the coming months. On the jobs front, the summer slowdown hasn’t dampened opportunities much. Local business activity is bustling, especially up north: Andy’s Frozen Custard is bringing its third Fort Worth location to 1725 Basswood Boulevard, with the grand opening set for July 30. This expansion highlights continued growth in both jobs and amenities, and the opening is a popular topic for families beating the heat this July. Speaking of classic Fort Worth institutions in transition, the iconic Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in the Stockyards is getting a major face-lift. Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and his partners are putting millions into expanded dining, a massive patio for live music, and a swanky 130-seat members-only club. The renovations are expected to finish later this summer and bring a modern twist to a historic favorite that’s anchored the Stockyards since 1947. From City Hall, Councilmember Michael Crain is making headlines for his work supporting public art and animal welfare. The city is investing in programs to keep pets safe and encouraging more responsible pet ownership. Residents are also invited to upcoming city forums, especially the August 14th meet-and-greet with candidates for Fort Worth police chief, both online and at City Hall. Now to weather: we’re looking at mostly sunny skies and highs near 99 today, with a light breeze along Trinity Trail and scattered clouds expected in the late afternoon. No rain to slow us down, so outdoor events and summer camps are ready to go. If you’re by the river or creek beds, officials remind us to keep an eye out, as residual flooding from early July’s severe storms has led to some uneven ground in certain parks. For family fun this weekend, Camp Fort Worth continues with art and sports programs for kids. Saturday morning, Fort Woof Run Club brings together runners and shelter dogs at Trinity Trail at 8 a.m. And at Candleridge Park at 9 a.m., families can join a nature scavenger hunt—meet up at the playground. Meanwhile, Fort Worth Animal Care & Control is hosting an adoption event at the Museum Atrium on Saturday from 11 to 3, a perfect way to meet your next furry friend. Over on the real estate front, home values are holding steady after a busy spring, with average prices in the southwest neighborhoods now just above a half-million dollars. Meanwhile, commercial construction continues, guided by the latest recommendations from the Urban Design Commission. Quickly checking high school sports, our local athletes are making us proud in summer leagues, with the Arlington Heights baseball team clinching their division title just last This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.