Dr. Brandon Chicotsky, associate professor at Texas Christian University and private equity advisor, recently appeared on The Building Texas Show to analyze the economic factors driving Fort Worth's substantial growth. The discussion centered on the city's strategic approach to development, governance, and cultural branding that has positioned it as a leading economic center in North Texas.
Fort Worth achieved $6.7 billion in new capital investment during fiscal year 2025, marking its strongest performance in over a decade. Chicotsky attributed this momentum to significant projects in aerospace, technology, logistics, and advanced manufacturing sectors. He noted that companies are actively recruiting from TCU's top-ranked programs, including the TCU Sales Center, where graduates frequently earn over $100,000 in their first year of employment.
Chicotsky emphasized that Fort Worth's success stems from what he described as "sensible government" focused on practical outcomes rather than political performance. He contrasted Fort Worth's approach with other major cities that he characterized as getting "stuck in virtue signaling." The professor highlighted specific examples of functional governance, including mixed-use urban infill projects in Westside Village and collaborations with prominent developers like John Goff and Ross Perot Jr.
Academic expansions play a crucial role in Fort Worth's growth strategy, according to Chicotsky. He pointed to developments such as UTA West and Texas A&M's new downtown law school as evidence of the city's investable climate and commitment to educational infrastructure. These institutions contribute to workforce development and attract businesses seeking skilled talent.
The city employs structured incentive programs to attract quality development, using Chapter 312 tax abatements and Chapter 380 "pay-as-you-go" agreements strategically. Chicotsky explained that Fort Worth uses these incentives to expand the tax base rather than to fill budget shortfalls, distinguishing it from what he called "stuck cities" like Chicago or San Francisco. With approximately 66,000 undeveloped acres available, the city is positioned for growth that outpaces infrastructure costs.
Chicotsky connected economic strategy with cultural identity, noting Fort Worth's unique blend of historical heritage and modern innovation. He described the city's "Western chic" culture as a distinctive brand that combines its origins as a frontier fort with contemporary attractions like the thriving stockyards and the Paramount-backed production campus led by Taylor Sheridan. Tourism represents a significant economic driver, with 11.5 million visitors in 2024 generating over $3.5 billion in economic impact.
The implications of Fort Worth's growth model extend beyond local economic development. The city's approach demonstrates how municipalities can balance rapid expansion with cultural preservation, strategic incentive use, and academic partnership development. For businesses considering relocation or expansion, Fort Worth offers a case study in how functional governance and sensible growth policies can create sustainable economic environments. The city's success suggests that other municipalities might benefit from similar approaches that prioritize practical outcomes over political performance.
For residents and potential investors, Fort Worth's growth trajectory indicates continued economic opportunity and community development. The emphasis on academic partnerships ensures workforce readiness, while strategic incentive programs attract businesses that contribute to long-term economic stability. The city's ability to maintain its cultural identity while embracing innovation provides a model for urban development that respects heritage while pursuing progress.
