Where I Live: Young college student finds belonging in Fort Worth’s Eastgate neighborhood

By Sarah Wesolowski

I was drawn to Fort Worth’s Eastgate neighborhood in an act of change and perseverance for my independence.

Where I Live spotlights Tarrant County’s unique neighborhoods, as told by the residents that live there. Submit an essay to tell us about your neighborhood. Where I Live is sponsored by Frost Bank.

Growing up, I lived on the outskirts of Eastchase Parkway in Arlington, but my admiration for the nearby city of Fort Worth deepened with each step I took away from my childhood home. While previous experiences in upscale residences and picturesque locales such as Colorado offered their own allure, none rivaled the profound sense of belonging I found in my current surroundings. 

My recent relocation, less than six months ago, afforded a unique opportunity for introspection, compelling me to truly observe my environment rather than merely exist within it. 

Fort Worth’s Eastgate neighborhood is close to the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base to permit the resonant call of trumpets signaling dawn, but is markedly distinct from the enclaves of luxury in gated communities and skyscrapers with views. 

From my doorstep, I often witness the swift passage of vehicles driven by individuals whose expressions, whether judgmental of my unwavering resolve or complacent in their own insulated existences, betray a disconnection from the authentic spirit of this place. Yet, across the thoroughfare, I see veterans diligently maintaining their homes, their pride evident in every detail even as their dwellings, though modest, harbor families rich in spirit.

Red cowboy boots are strewn across the patio July 19, 2025, in the Eastgate neighborhood in Fort Worth. (Mary Abby Goss | Fort Worth Report)

The Eastgate neighborhood is far from forgotten. 

Its vitality is palpable in the simple joys, whether it’s a makeshift slip-and-slide gracing a small front yard or teenagers clandestinely seeking respite in Burgers Lake. 

Houses too small for big families and cats who are not lost, but always wandering. 

Volunteering and witnessing locals consistently helping homeless get access to food and shelter.

Everything here has been life-changing for me. 

My neighborhood cultivates a dynamic lifestyle, seamlessly blending outdoor activity with urban sophistication. 

Each day begins with invigorating runs on gravel and kayaking currents alongside the Trinity River’s scenic trails. 

Evenings effortlessly open opportunities for my street photography.

Because Fort Worth has events almost every day, something is always going on.

This yearning for an inclusive community is rooted from growing up in Arlington. 

Arlington radiates a vibrant atmosphere thanks to it serving as a cultural hub for sports with the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers and the Entertainment District and its historical importance for Native Americans.

I have experienced various facets of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex throughout my life. I found a strong sense of belonging and truly adapted to Fort Worth. 

Moving to the Eastgate neighborhood has been a pivotal moment in my journey. I feel privileged to call this incredible city home.

Eastgate

Total population: 4,388
Female: 67.7% | Male: 32.3%

Age
0-9: 4.7%
10-19: 11.9%
20-29: 21.2%
30-39: 17.8%
40-49: 16.8%
50-59: 11.5%
60-69: 9.2%
70-79: 5%
80 and older: 1.9%

Education
No degree: 16.5%
High school: 41.9%
Some college: 33.2%
Bachelor’s degree: 6%
Post-graduate: 2.4%

Where I Live: Young college student finds belonging in Fort Worth’s Eastgate neighborhood

Race
White: 45.9% | Hispanic: 7.2% | Black: 44% | Asian: 0.3% | Two or more: 1.2%


Click on the link to view the schools’ Texas Education Agency ratings:

Source: Census Reporter

Sarah Wesolowski is a student at the University of Texas at Arlington and enjoys running on the Trinity Trails and kayaking on the nearby Trinity River.

Fort Worth Report is certified by the Journalism Trust Initiative for adhering to standards for ethical journalism.

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Great Job The FWR Staff & the Team @ Fort Worth Report Source link for sharing this story.

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Felicia Ray Owens
Felicia Ray Owenshttps://feliciarayowens.com
Felicia Ray Owens is a media founder, cultural strategist, and civic advocate who creates platforms where power meets lived truth. As the voice behind C4: Coffee. Cocktails. Culture. Conversation and the founder of FROUSA Media, she uses storytelling, public dialogue, and organizing to spotlight the issues that matter most—locally and nationally. A longtime advocate for community wellness and political engagement, Felicia brings experience as a former Precinct Chair and former Chief Communications Officer of Indivisible Hill Country. Her work bridges culture, activism, and healing through curated spaces designed to inspire real change. Learn more at FROUSA.org

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