Statement of Interest for Casino Beach

Parks Recreation & Community Center Imrpovements

Statement of Interest (SOI) Solicitation

Private Recreational Development Opportunity – Casino Beach Area (16 acres)

Issued: January 9, 2026

Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026

Purpose and Invitation

The City of Fort Worth is soliciting Statements of Interest (SOIs) to gauge interest for the development and operation of recreational amenities on City-owned, non-park property totaling approximately 16 acres adjacent to Casino Beach Park.

This SOI seeks creative, sustainable and environmentally sensitive concepts that will activate the underutilized site, beautify the area, and provide non-motorized recreational options that enhance the City’s waterfront experience at Lake Worth. The City’s goal is to work with the private sector to transform the area into a vibrant destination while aligning with community values and the City’s broader development goals.

At this time, the City has not identified funding for participating in the improvements. This SOI is not seeking formal proposals. At an appropriate time in the future, a Request for Proposals (RFP) will be issued seeking proposals for the redevelopment, operation and maintenance of this location. 

 

Site Context and Description

The subject property includes 16 acres of non-park, City-owned land situated adjacent to the 44-acre Casino Beach Park on the east side of Lake Worth (Attachment A). The site is characterized by its waterfront access, open space, and visual prominence — making it a prime location for recreational activation and community engagement.

map of casino beach non-park property

 

map of casino beach property

Site Advantages

- Direct adjacency to existing park amenities and lake frontage

- Scenic views and proximity to natural features

- Existing roadway access and nearby utility infrastructure

- Potential synergy with City-led redevelopment efforts

History

Casino Beach was a bustling lakeside amusement and cultural destination from the early 1900s through the mid-20th century. The City’s goal is to honor the legacy of Casino Beach’s past while redeveloping the site once again into a lakeside destination for public enjoyment. 

Desired Uses and Exclusions

The City is anticipating that the site facilities include non-motorized, low-impact recreational experiences that complement the natural setting, maintain open access to the lake, create spaces for community gathering and recreation, and connect the adjacent residential and commercial community to the site in a walkable pedestrian environment.

Encouraged Uses:

- Short term public boat dock for access to site

- Food Service with patio

- Public beach 

- Canoe, kayak, sail (windsurf, sailing dinghy’s) and paddleboard rental or launch services

- Pickleball courts and other low-impact sports courts

- Beach volleyball areas

- Playground and interactive nature-based installations

- Passive recreation areas with shaded seating and walking paths

Excluded Uses:

- Residential development

- Motorized watercraft rental 

- Marina development for boat slip leasing

- Fueling station

- Amusement park or large-scale commercial amusements

- Permanent structures that significantly alter topography or natural viewsheds

- Environmentally disruptive activities

Site Considerations

Respondents are advised to consider the following key site-related factors:

Access & Visibility:

- Accessible from State Highway 199 (Jacksboro Highway), offering regional connectivity and visibility.

- Future proposals should address vehicular circulation, parking, and pedestrian/bike access to adjacent Casino Beach Park.

-In addition to Casino Beach Park, this park is adjacent to Love Circle Park and the Fort Worth Nature Center. This proximity presents a unique opportunity for synergistic development.

Infrastructure Availability:

- Basic utilities are in the vicinity, but specific site connections and upgrades may be needed.

- Possible city investments include utility extensions, stormwater management, and parking or lighting improvements.

Cost and Feasibility Awareness:

- Concepts should acknowledge infrastructure needs and development costs.

- Phased development or public-private cost sharing may be explored in future phases.

Project Goals and Objectives

Future proposals should consider the City’s goals to:

- Beautify and Revitalize the site

- Deliver a Unique Recreational Experience

- Support Revenue Generation

- Stimulate Broader Area Development

- Protect Natural Resources through sustainable design

Example of Casino Beach's future developement

 

Submission Requirements

Each Statement of Interest should include the following, three (3) copies not to exceed 10 pages and bound:

- Contact Information: Primary point of contact for follow-up

- Partnerships (if any): Description of proposed partners, roles, and relevant experience 

- Summary of proposed recreational concept and uses

 

Tentative Timeline

Milestone | Date (Tentative)

----------|----------------

SOI Release | January 9, 2026

Optional Site Visit | OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ANYTIME

Q&A Period Closes | February 27, 2026

Submission Deadline | February 27, 2026

Review and Next Steps | March 16, 2026

 

Submission Instructions

Submit your Statement of Interest via Bonfire (link below), electronically (PDF format) via email or by mail, must be received by February 27, 2026 to:

Scott E. Penn
City of Fort Worth – Park & Recreation Department, Planning & Resource Management Division – 9th Fl, 916.11

100 Fort Worth Trail

Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Email: scott.penn@fortworthtexas.gov

Phone: 817.392.5750

Bonfire:

https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/finance/purchasing/bids-current

Project Ref.: 26-0086