```html

Revamping History: The $20 Million Transformation of the Iconic Stockyards Hotel

by Bob Francis, Breaking Now News
September 29, 2024

Fort Worth's beloved Stockyards Hotel, a landmark steeped in history, is set to undergo a stunning $20 million renovation. This ambitious project is spearheaded by Stockyards Heritage Development Co., a collaboration between Majestic Realty and the Hickman Companies, who acquired the hotel located at 109 E. Exchange Ave. in 2022.

What's in Store for the Stockyards Hotel?

Starting January 2025, the transformation of this 26,500-square-foot establishment will commence, with completion aimed for mid-2026. Here’s what the renovation entails:

• Complete interior demolition and remodeling of the existing 50 guest rooms.
• A new front canopy to enhance the hotel’s visual appeal.
• Renovation of the exterior patio and public spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Dallas-based Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects will lead the architectural design, promising a blend of modern amenities while retaining the hotel's historical charm.

The Bonnie and Clyde Connection

One of the most intriguing aspects of the renovation is the fate of the Bonnie and Clyde Junior Suite. This room holds a unique place in history, having housed the notorious outlaws during a stay in Fort Worth in 1933, just a year before their infamous demise. The suite is adorned with memorabilia, including a poignant poem written by Bonnie Parker, encapsulating their tragic love story:

“They’ve been shot at before, but they do not ignore. That death is the wages of sin. Some day they’ll go down together. And they’ll bury them side by side. To few it’ll be grief, to the law a relief. But it’s death for Bonnie and Clyde.”

A Broader Vision for the Stockyards

This renovation is just a piece of a larger puzzle. Majestic Realty is also planning a monumental $630 million expansion in the Stockyards area, which will feature:

• 300,000 square feet of new commercial space.
• Two underground parking garages.
• 500 additional hotel rooms and nearly 300 apartments.

Additionally, the John Wayne: An American Experience museum has recently expanded its exhibit space, and a veteran-owned distillery is set to open a tasting room and restaurant nearby.

What This Means for the Community

Since the revitalization efforts began in 2014, the Stockyards have seen a tremendous increase in visitors—from 3 million to an estimated 9 million annually. This surge speaks to the cultural and economic significance of the area, which continues to attract investments and attention.

Retail Expansion at Tanger Fort Worth

In related news, Tanger Fort Worth is welcoming new retailers, including:

• Buckle, a national apparel brand opening this fall.
• Spring Step Shoes, a family-owned footwear brand.
• Renovated spaces for Coach and upcoming Ulta Beauty locations.

What Do You Think?

• Is investing in historic hotels a smart move for revitalizing local economies?
• Should the Bonnie and Clyde suite be preserved in its current form, or is it time for a change?
• What impact do you think the new commercial spaces will have on the local community?
• Do you believe that the Stockyards can maintain its historical charm while expanding?