John Kent

Imagine stepping onto a speedy, cushy, state-of-the-art electric train, then blowing past all those poor stiffs mired on the interstate as you blast your way from Fort Worth to Dallas and back. Whoosh! You’re there.

Collin County residents, led by Sylvia Roy, oppose a proposed wastewater plant by Restore the Grasslands LLC, fearing it will harm Maxwell Creek's ecology. The plant would release large volumes of treated effluent into the creek. Local governments and environmental groups have joined in opposition, prompting TCEQ to hold a public meeting.

The NTREG/TXSES Diversity Internship Program, chaired by Rosa Orenstein, aims to boost diversity in the solar industry by introducing underrepresented students to clean energy careers. Funded by the Texas Solar Energy Society, the program offers paid part-time internships to diverse candidates and seeks more industry participation.

Rivian Automotive plans a $5 billion plant on Fort Worth's west side to produce zero-emissions vehicles. Emphasizing sustainability, the company aims for net-zero carbon output, preserve 300 acres, and collaborate with the Open Space Conservation Program. Fort Worth has approved a $440 million tax incentive for the project.

PS1200, a mixed-use development in Fort Worth, features Quonset-hut apartments, retail shops, offices, and a vegan bistro by Spiral Diner founders, all within an eco-friendly, public park setting. Developed by Prince Concepts and designed by Marlon Blackwell Architects, it emphasizes sustainability and innovative design.

The eco-friendly North Animal Campus in Fort Worth, designed for animal welfare and environmental sustainability, offers nearly 50,000 square feet of space on 7.5 acres. It includes native landscaping, LEED standards, and multiple animal-friendly facilities, enhancing convenience for local residents and promoting pet adoption and fostering.

Conservationists in Fort Worth are striving to protect the city’s last native prairie amid rapid development. The Fort Worth Prairie Park effort continues despite setbacks, aiming to unite private and public lands into a contiguous reserve. Stakeholders, including the Great Plains Restoration Council, collaborate to preserve this endangered ecosystem.

The deep freeze in North Texas stressed many trees, but most will recover, experts say. Live oaks' dramatic leaf loss is normal, while magnolias and sensitive non-native or young trees might suffer more. Residents should delay pruning and ensure trees are well-watered and fertilized to reduce stress.

Emerald ash borers pose a severe threat to ash trees in North Texas, risking ecosystem collapse. These beetles have already killed millions of trees across the U.S. Experts urge swift action to slow their spread, employing methods like SLAM or introducing parasitoid wasps to manage infestations effectively.

Christmas Light Source, a Fort Worth-based business, offers free recycling of old or broken holiday lights and donates proceeds to Toys for Tots. The program processes thousands of pounds of lights annually, involving efficient recycling and selling old lights.

Hurry to car showrooms as Texas' electric vehicle rebate ends January 7. Buyers can get up to $2,500 for battery-electric or plug-in hybrids, but Tesla is excluded. EV popularity is rising, with models offering 250+ miles on a charge and a growing number of charging stations nationwide.

The Arlington vote advances a fully funded Fort Worth-Dallas Regional Trail plan, bridging a gap between the two cities with a 30-mile trail. A projected 2023 completion promises expanded connectivity and health benefits, as supported by Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price.