America's fastest growing city embraces "Yellowstone" mania.
(Bloomberg) -- The leader of America's fastest-growing city is betting that Yellowstone mania and quality-of-life issues in larger metros can help sustain expansion even as business relocations slow since the peak of the pandemic era.
Mattie Parker, mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, says a focus on crime, homelessness, parks and reliable infrastructure has positioned the city of 950,000 as an attractive alternative to Chicago, San Francisco and New York, which are struggling with perceptions of deteriorating safety. after Covid-19. The 39-year-old Republican, generally considered a moderate in deep-red Texas, says Fort Worth's intention to attract businesses emphasizes its roots (the city's motto is "Where the West Begins") and small-town atmosphere, even if its warehouses are now more of a tourist attraction than a real one. agricultural enterprise. The ranching and cowboy nostalgia evoked by the hit TV series Yellowstone and 1923 — created by Taylor Sheridan, who grew up in part in Fort Worth — only adds to its appeal.
“Fort Worth continues to be an incredibly unique city that is very proud of our Western heritage,” Parker said in an interview at City Hall, where groundbreaking ceremony shovels have been placed in a display case over the years. “And the timing couldn't have been better because of the fanfare and frenzy over Yellowstone and 1923.
In Fort Worth, it is common to see cowboy hats and boots paired with a tailored suit. Unlike nearby Dallas, which mostly feels like any other big metropolis, Fort Worth embraces its sense of place. There's plenty of live country music, two-step dancing, and Tex-Mex cuisine. Parker said it's important for Fort Worth to maintain its culture even as it tries to grow. To that end, he wants to create more public parks, and the city's next budget proposes to hire 100 more people for the police department to help maintain order.
"How you respond to a mental health crisis looks different today in 2023 than it did in 1985 and needs, and we have a department that focuses on that," she said. “If you're not a safe city, nobody wants to live there. I mean, look at San Francisco right now."
San Francisco and other major US cities have seen a spike in property crime and visible homelessness during the pandemic, prompting a view among some that lawlessness is the order of the day. While there is no doubt that San Francisco is facing a homeless crisis and seeing an exodus of businesses and residents, the increase in crime has been mostly non-violent. The measures put the California city's homicide rate at about 6.9 per 100,000 people, well below Fort Worth's rate of about 11.
But as San Francisco loses people, Fort Worth gains them. Last year, the Texas city had the largest population growth of any city with more than 50,000 residents and is now the 13th largest in the country. (Among Republican mayors, none oversees a larger city than Parker.) The DFW metroplex, which includes Dallas and suburbs, is the fourth largest in the US. Some of this growth has been due to large companies moving to or expanding into North Texas.
In recent years, Charles Schwab Corp. moved its headquarters to the suburb of Westlake, where Fidelity Investments is also expanding. Caterpillar Inc. last year it announced a move to Irving, 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Fort Worth.
And then there's the transportation industry, which has long been the engine of the economy. American Airlines Group Inc. is based in Fort Worth, along with Bell Textron Inc., a helicopter manufacturer, and BNSF Railway. Lockheed Martin Corp. manufactures its F-35 fighter jets in Fort Worth. Ross Perot Jr.'s Fort Worth logistics development, AllianceTexas, contributes billions of dollars to the North Texas economy. The project includes an industrial airport and hubs for FedEx Corp. and Amazon.com Inc.
Fort Worth will continue to focus on aerospace defense, mobility and energy, according to Robert Allen, who directs the city's new economic development partnership. The city is also hoping for contributions from universities including Texas Christian University and Texas A&M, which is building a new $150 million campus there.
Todd Burnette, managing director of real estate firm JLL, said $2.3 billion in projects are under construction or in the pipeline in Fort Worth. Among the biggest are the A&M campus, an expansion of the Omni Hotel, a larger convention center and new residential buildings.
Fort Worth has often lost out to surrounding suburbs due to major financial moves and expansions. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is building a new office building in Dallas, while Wells Fargo & Co. started at the new regional campus in Irving. Still, Fort Worth now has a lower office vacancy rate than at the start of the pandemic — just 13% for Class A buildings — and workers in the region have been returning to offices faster than the national average.
In recent years, the city of Bozeman, Montana has emerged as a thriving hub, and it's no wonder why. As the fastest growing city in America, Bozeman has caught the attention of adventure seekers, nature lovers and fans of the hit TV series "Yellowstone". This unique combination has fueled a newfound fascination with the city, leading to an influx of residents, tourists and an increase in local businesses. Let's dive into the exciting synergy between Bozeman's growth and 'Yellowstone' mania.
Survey of Bozeman's Rapid Rise
Bozeman's growth trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Located in the picturesque Gallatin Valley, this city boasts a vibrant arts scene, top-notch educational institutions, and unique opportunities for outdoor recreation. As word of its beauty and potential spread, people from all over the country were drawn to this Montana gem.
One of the key factors in Bozeman's rise is its proximity to the stunning landscapes from the popular TV series "Yellowstone." From rugged mountains to pristine rivers, the show's breathtaking backdrop is reminiscent of the very surroundings that make Bozeman a nature lover's paradise. This geographical connection created a wave of interest among fans of the show, leading many to visit and even relocate to the area.
'Yellowstone' effect
The hit TV series "Yellowstone" starring Kevin Costner has won the hearts of millions. The riveting drama set against the backdrop of a ranch near Bozeman has created a devoted fan base, and their passion for the show has extended beyond the screen. As audiences yearn to experience the stunning landscape depicted in the movie "Yellowstone," Bozeman has become the ultimate destination.
Tourists flock to Bozeman to witness firsthand the landscapes they fell in love with at the show. They wander the trails, raft the rivers, and immerse themselves in the rugged beauty that mirrors the "Yellowstone" universe. This influx of visitors not only boosted the local tourism industry, but also provided an opportunity for small businesses to flourish.
Bozeman businesses are booming
Local Bozeman businesses are capitalizing on the "Yellowstone" craze in creative ways. Restaurants and cafes offer "Yellowstone"-themed menus, and shops sell merchandise inspired by the parade. Guided tours will take fans to iconic locations from the series, creating an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of 'Yellowstone' with the magic of Bozeman.
Bozeman real estate is experiencing a boom as more and more individuals and families choose to make this picturesque town their home. The demand for housing has led to a construction boom and created opportunities for local builders, contractors and real estate agents.
The future of Bozeman
As Bozeman continues to embrace "Yellowstone" mania and welcome new residents and tourists, the future looks promising. This unique convergence of natural beauty, cultural richness, and television-inspired fascination has established Bozeman as a city on the rise. Local leaders are working to maintain a balance between growth and preserving the very essence that makes Bozeman special.
In conclusion, Bozeman, the fastest growing city in America, has seamlessly woven "Yellowstone" mania into its vibrant tapestry. This harmonious blend of natural wonders and TV-inspired appeal takes the city to new heights. As the 'Yellowstone' phenomenon continues to capture hearts, Bozeman is poised to offer an unforgettable experience to all who seek adventure, beauty and the spirit of the West.
.jpg)
0 Comments