Hundreds of apartments and a range of entertainment venues are being developed in north Fort Worth as part of Steve McKeever’s North City project. The mixed-use development, covering about 148 acres, is situated below North Tarrant Parkway, west of I-35W, and northeast of US 287. McKeever’s vision for the area is an “urban village” that combines residential units with retail and entertainment options.
McKeever owns over 300 acres split between land north and south of U.S. 287. He estimates the total value of the development will surpass $1.1 billion once completed. His main goal is to transform the northern section into a pedestrian-friendly hub for entertainment, which he says is lacking in this part of Fort Worth despite its closeness to AllianceTexas.
AllianceTexas, a nearby master-planned community covering 27,000 acres, has contributed more than 66,000 jobs and approximately $130 billion in economic impact since its inception in 1990.
Construction at North City is underway. Miami-based Resia is building a 465-unit apartment complex on eight acres. Cross Developer from Carrollton, working with McKeever through a joint venture, is constructing another 233-unit apartment project nearby. Plans are also set to begin work this summer on a third development with 354 units, followed by an additional phase in about two years.
On January 31, McKeever plans to open City Pickle USA, a pickleball facility featuring 16 courts along with a gym, wellness amenities, and a sports bar. “The club is designed as more than a sports stop, featuring a full gym, wellness offerings and a sports bar — a kind of stay-all-day idea North City is chasing,” said McKeever.
Retail tenants already established at North City include Andretti Indoor Karting and Games occupying 100,000 square feet, Living Spaces furniture retailer, and Carvana’s used-car vending machine operation. McKeever noted that increasing density will help attract future tenants such as grocery stores or music venues.
The project has experienced several changes over time; Ikea previously considered the site but withdrew its interest. During the pandemic period alone, McKeever reported losing fourteen deals but stated that patience remains central to his approach.
