In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Robert Sturns, Director of Economic Development for Fort Worth, discusses how the city is transforming from "Cowtown to Boomtown" while preserving its authentic character.
With over 25 years of experience in municipal government, commercial real estate, and banking operations, Sturns details Fort Worth's success in securing major investments, including recent wins with Bell and Embraer, while balancing business recruitment with community development initiatives like Evans & Rosedale and the Panther Island project.
Sturns also discusses his journey in the profession, including his 20+ year career serving both Fort Worth and Arlington. He offers insights into managing regional relationships, particularly addressing the challenge of establishing Fort Worth's identity distinct from Dallas, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork and partnerships in economic development success.
Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers
Balance large-scale development with community needs and cultural preservationFocus on building relationships before transactions in deal-makingLeverage existing cultural assets (like the Stockyards) for economic growthDevelop strategic plans for transformational projects like Panther IslandCreate mixed-use developments that honor local heritage while embracing progressBuild strong partnerships with educational institutions for workforce developmentMaintain clear communication channels with stakeholders and the communityUse existing success stories (like Bell and Embraer) to attract similar industriesImplement creative financing solutions for major development projectsBalance business retention efforts with new business recruitment strategiesLike this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!
Special Guest: Robert Sturns.
Sponsored By:
- Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.
Links:
- Robert Sturns | LinkedIn
- Fort Worth Economic Development | Empowering Business
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
- Royal Capital named master developer for Evans & Rosedale project – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth
- Who owns Panther Island | A look at plans to develop Fort Worth | wfaa.com
- Fort Worth recieves billions in economic development investment | wfaa.com
- Major investment and large-scale projects attract national attention to Fort Worth, Texas - Boston Business Journal
- Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
- The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday