A walkable neighborhood transforms the site of an old mall in this Fort Worth suburb

Rick Mauch
North Richland Hills

The site of the old North Hills Mall, an eyesore for years after it closed in 2004, is experiencing a rebirth as City Point, with homes, restaurants and shops on the way.

The project has been recognized by the International Economic Development Council as an example of a successful major mall redevelopment. When complete it will be home to 2,500 people who desire a central location and low-maintenance lifestyle close to services.

The mall was razed in 2007, and the vacant land and old parking lots stood out along Boulevard 26 near Northeast Loop 820 until City Hall opened in 2016. City leaders envisioned the 180,000-square-foot municipal building would be a catalyst for development.

Craig Hulse, the city’s director of economic development, said it is believed City Point is Tarrant County’s first major mall redevelopment into a mixed-use urban village.

Essentially, there are three phases within the 50-acre project:

  • Single-family housing consisting of 365 lots, 177 detached homes and 188 town homes.

  • Apartments with 352 units inside a four-story building.

  • 60,000 square-feet of commercial space along main street, called City Point Drive.

“While the City Point project started a few years ago, most of the work had been at the surface or underground, so it’s exciting to see the vertical development taking shape,” Mayor Oscar Trevino said. “It’s an excellent example of redevelopment and revitalization.”

Hulse said over 33% of the single family lots have been permitted or are in plan review from Mattamy Homes, Ashton Woods and CB Jeni. Mattamy Homes and Ashton Woods offer detached two- and three-story homes, between 1,600 and 2,600 square feet with prices from the high $300s to the low $500s. CB Jeni offers two-story attached homes between 1,600 and 2,000 square feet from the mid $300s to the low $400s.

Hulse said model homes from all three builders are nearing completion with sales staff available on site.

“Homes are currently under contract, so it’s a matter of weeks before people begin to move in,” Hulse said.

The NRP Group is developing the apartments, called The Delegate at City Point. The four-story project surrounds the City Point commercial district with primarily one- and two-bedroom units. Construction started in early 2022 with completion expected to be in early 2024. Cost to rent will be at the market rate, which is about $1.80 per square foot, Hulse said.

The commercial area consists of two 30,000-square-foot phases along City Point Drive. Hulse said master developer Centurion American and city staff are in the final stages of review, with the first phase set to start construction early 2023.

“The commercial space is being carefully designed to integrate today’s retail, food and service trends that meet both operational needs and enjoyable experiences,” Hulse said. “There is considerable interest from several restaurants, traditional retailers and service-based businesses. All are in negotiation stage that will finalize as commercial draws closer to completion.”

Hulse said residents can expect a wide sidewalks and trail connection. City Hall houses a majority of city services and is host to many community events. The development is next to Medical City North Hills.

Jack Binion Elementary across the street, feeding up to Birdville High School. St. John the Apostle School, a Blue Ribbon Catholic school, is next door.

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