 Fort Worth is planning now for a 2018 bond program, bonds that pay for things the city needs, like road work, parks, community centers, library improvements, and public safety. The city uses bonds to pay for major capital improvements that benefit the entire community, long-term projects, not everyday expenses. And because bonds are paid back over time, they do not require a property tax hike. A bond program voters approved in 2014 has paid for nearly $293 million in projects, including $220 million in street improvements throughout the city, $48 million for facilities such as police and fire stations, libraries, courts, drainage, and animal care, and $24 million for parks and community centers. Among the hundreds of 2014 projects, a new skate park at Chisholm Park, renovation of Rockwood Golf Course, reconstruction or rehabilitation of nearly 200 neighborhood and commuter street segments, construction of a new Golden Triangle Library, and expansion of the Silcox Animal Care and Control Facility. Now that the 2014 bond program work is wrapping up, it's time to begin planning for a new round of bond projects. This is your chance to suggest projects in your neighborhood, along your commute, or citywide. There are always more needs than money to pay for them. High priority will be given to projects that upgrade or maintain existing city facilities, improve safety, especially in neighborhoods and near schools, keep traffic flowing, and create new parks and recreation areas for residents. Learn more at fortworthtexas.gov slash 2018 bonds. See which projects are being considered and suggest projects you want to keep Fort Worth safe, clean, and growing in the right direction.