Why the DFW Metroplex Should Be Renamed the FWD Metroplex

1. Fort Worth Is the Cultural Heart of North Texas

Dallas might have the skyscrapers, but Fort Worth has the soul. Known as "Cowtown," Fort Worth celebrates its rich Western heritage while also embracing modern culture. The Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic hub for cattle drives, remain an iconic destination, offering visitors an authentic taste of Texas with rodeos, shops, and restaurants. The city’s Cultural District is equally impressive, boasting world-class institutions like the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. These attractions make Fort Worth a cultural powerhouse that is second to none in North Texas.

2. Fort Worth’s Growth Is Outpacing Dallas

Fort Worth has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States for years. While Dallas is often considered the "big brother," Fort Worth’s rapid population growth and economic expansion are closing the gap. From 2010 to 2020, Fort Worth’s population grew by over 24%, compared to Dallas’s 12% growth during the same period. This booming growth reflects Fort Worth’s appeal as a place where families and businesses alike can thrive. Moreover, Fort Worth is home to major companies like American Airlines, Bell Textron, and BNSF Railway, which contribute to its strong economic foundation and make it a hub for transportation and industry.

3. Fort Worth Offers a Superior Quality of Life

Ask any local, and they’ll tell you: Fort Worth offers a more relaxed, welcoming environment compared to Dallas’s high-paced, corporate vibe. The city’s cost of living is lower than Dallas, making it more accessible for families and young professionals. Additionally, Fort Worth is rich in green spaces, with the Trinity Trails providing miles of scenic paths for walking, running, and cycling. Other outdoor attractions, like the Fort Worth Water Gardens, offer unique and peaceful retreats in the heart of the city. Fort Worth’s sense of community and its friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere make it a place where people genuinely enjoy living and connecting with one another.

4. Fort Worth’s Identity Is Uniquely Texan

Dallas often feels more like a generic metropolitan city, whereas Fort Worth embraces its Texas roots unapologetically. From the long-standing tradition of rodeos and livestock shows to the thriving cowboy culture, Fort Worth stands out as a city that honors its history while moving forward. Distinct neighborhoods like Sundance Square and Magnolia Avenue are brimming with local charm, offering unique dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences that reflect the city’s character. Fort Worth’s commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering growth and creativity makes it a uniquely Texan destination that stands apart from Dallas.

5. The Name Change Reflects a Balanced Partnership

Renaming the Metroplex to FWD doesn’t mean excluding Dallas; it simply acknowledges the importance of Fort Worth as an equal partner in this thriving region. By flipping the order, we celebrate the diversity and contributions of both cities in a fairer way. The acronym FWD also carries a modern and progressive connotation, suggesting forward thinking and innovation—values that both cities embody as they continue to grow and evolve. Recognizing Fort Worth’s contributions through a name change would foster a greater sense of balance and unity across the Metroplex.