In a move that could change the landscape around Keller ISD’s Basswood Elementary, the Fort Worth City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 27 to rezone near the school.

The rezoning would convert about 32.3 acres near the school from an industrial use to a more community-oriented use. The decision, which comes from ongoing community concerns and was pushed by Council Member Charles Lauersdorf, aims to improve student safety and create a more conducive environment for future educational and community facilities, said Lauersdorf, who represents the area.

“We can continue and protect our schools,” said Lauersdorf.

The initiative follows intense public scrutiny and debate over the proposed construction of a long-term motel called Studio 6 near Basswood Elementary – a plan that was ultimately stopped by Keller ISD due to safety concerns from parents and educators.

The resolution also continues to mark a turning point in the city’s approach to urban planning near schools. During their Aug. 6 meeting, city staff presented a proposed amendment that would require the designation of a planned development area for any new hotel, motel or inn within 1,000 feet of public or private elementary and secondary schools through 12th grade.

Both the proposed change and the rezoning measures are designed to protect the safety of current and future Fort Worth students, Lauersdorf said.

The resolution changes the designation of the property from light industrial, which includes general commercial and service uses, to intensive commercial and municipal facilities. The change would primarily apply to areas bounded by Clay Mountain Trail, Sandshell Boulevard, Corrine Drive and the Interstate 35W access road in north Fort Worth.

The resolution also points out that the area’s existing industrial zoning is inconsistent with the City Council’s 2023 Comprehensive Plan and its vision of a mixed-use growth center – that is, urbanized places that have many of the characteristics of a city center, including a high concentration of jobs and housing, schools, parks and other public amenities.

Under the proposed zoning plan, 21.7 acres are to be redeveloped from light industrial to intensive commercial, which could pave the way for more retail and service businesses. In addition, 10.6 acres – including 2.22 acres previously acquired by Keller ISD – are now zoned for community facilities, potentially allowing for the expansion of educational facilities or public spaces.

On April 15, Keller ISD approved the purchase of the 2.22-acre property next to Basswood Elementary that would become the site of the long-term Studio 6 motel. Officials said the purchase would stop construction of the motel while giving the district land that could be converted into green space or to expand facilities.

The proposed zoning amendment included a conditional building permit for the Caliber car wash in the area, ensuring that operations would continue without violating the new zoning regulations.

Before the changes go into effect, there will be a public hearing and vote by the Zoning Commission on September 11. Final approval by the City Council is scheduled for September 17.

Matthew Sgroi is an education reporter for the Fort Worth Report. Reach him at [email protected] or @MatthewSgroi1. At The Fort Worth Report, news decisions are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy Here.

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