Fort Worth Council Protects Historic WWI Airstrip

City officials approved new zoning on October 13, 2026, to preserve a WWI-era airstrip site for a future park.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in City Hall

Fort Worth Council Protects Historic WWI Airstrip

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On October 13, 2026, the Fort Worth City Council approved a protective zoning overlay for the remnant of a World War I airstrip. The site will be converted into a public park to preserve the historic artifact.

Why it matters

The site was designated as a highly significant endangered landmark after a 2023 historical survey, prompting the council to ensure its long-term preservation. The zoning overlay prevents development on the land to maintain the integrity of this historic military asset.

The council added a highly significant endangered overlay to the 0.39-acre site located off the 2700 block of Muscogee Drive. This site remains part of the former Taliaferro Field No. 1, which was one of three such airstrips established in the area.

The players

Fort Worth City Council

This is the primary legislative body responsible for city governance, zoning decisions, and land use regulations within the city limits.

Historic and Cultural Landmark Commission

This municipal body advises the city on the preservation of historical sites and makes formal recommendations regarding land designation.

U.S. Army Air Service

This was the historic branch of the United States Army responsible for military aviation during the First World War.

The details

The site features a rare airplane silhouette constructed by digging into the ground and filling it with concrete for target practice. The Historic and Cultural Landmark Commission recommended the protective measures to secure the remnants of the field established by the U.S. Army Air Service.

1917: The U.S. Army Air Service established Taliaferro Field No. 1.
November 1917: The first flight occurred at the site.
2002: The site was recorded by the Army Corps of Engineers.
2023: A historical survey designated the site an endangered landmark.
October 13, 2026: City Council approved the protective zoning.

Political Context

The zoning change follows established guidelines set by the Historic and Cultural Landmark Commission to protect local heritage sites. Critics or developers may push back on these restrictions if they limit future housing density or economic development in the surrounding 2700 block of Muscogee Drive.

Residents near the 2700 block of Muscogee Drive can expect the site to remain restricted from private development in favor of future park access. This action preserves a piece of regional history while determining the land use for the 0.39-acre parcel.

The takeaway

Preserving historic military landmarks ensures that physical remnants of the nation's aviation history remain available for public education. Residents interested in local history can track upcoming park development plans through city planning meetings.