Last week, the Fort Worth Chamber’s West Area Board and the Cultural District Alliance (CDA) jointly hosted a happy hour at Ampersand, to learn more about business climate challenges they are collectively facing.  

With the Cultural and Entertainment Districts continuing to grow in popularity, the West Area Board and CDA saw this as a timely opportunity to bring business leaders together to discuss how to support long-term business retention and expansion in the area. Tammy McKinney, who serves on both the CDA Board and FWC West Area Board, connected the two organizations for this meet-up. 

Navigating Challenges in a High-Traffic Corridor 

Business owners discussed the unique pressures of operating in a high-traffic entertainment corridor, including infrastructure, safety, and the importance of maintaining a welcoming environment for visitors. Supporting the Entertainment District isn’t just about helping individual businesses, it is directly tied to Fort Worth’s broader economic development. These areas serve as gateways for residents and visitors alike, drawing tourism, creating jobs, and adding vibrancy that helps attract talent and investment across the city.  

As an outcome of the event, a joint West Area Board/CDA task force will be developed. The task force will be led by three local leaders: 

• Moody Younger, Co-Managing Partner of Younger Partners (Owners of Artisan Circle) 

• Toan Luong, Owner of Ampersand and West Area Board member 

• Brian Torres, Owner of The Local and River’s Cocktail and Wine Bar 

Pictured from left to right: Moody Younger, Derrick Potter, Toan Luong, Alyssa Al Sabi, Brian Torres, Chandon Sanders 

The task force will grow with additional owners and operators within the Entertainment District to identify shared challenges, propose solutions, and engage directly with the City. Plans are already underway for a luncheon later this fall to present findings and discuss actionable next steps with community members and city leadership. 

A Stronger Voice for Fort Worth’s Business Community 

This collaborative effort underscores the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to business advocacy—listening to business leaders, addressing shared challenges head-on, and building stronger partnerships to support Fort Worth’s diverse and growing economy. By elevating the voice of businesses in the Cultural and Entertainment District, the Chamber and the business community are helping ensure that the growth of this dynamic area continues to contribute to Fort Worth’s economy, quality of life, and reputation as a premier destination for both business and leisure.