The developer of the area around Alliance Airport in Fort Worth says it is working with Paramount Pictures and Taylor Sheridan's SGS Studios on a 450,000 square foot hub for "large-scale film and television production." Hillwood says the project will have the ability to support four productions at the same time and be the biggest film studio in Texas.
"We are at a pivotal moment where Texas can become a global force in the film industry, and North Texas offers the location and resources to play a central role in this development," Mike Berry, President of Hillwood, wrote in a statement. "We have the infrastructure in place to grow jobs exponentially and produce thousands of future film industry workers, and with our partners, we have already started providing training for the specialty skills this workforce sector requires. Doing this will allow us to further diversify North Texas' economic impact and long-term success."
Hillwood Chairman Ross Perot Jr. credits state lawmakers with "advancing the state’s film incentive legislation," saying that will create long-term economic benefits.
Fort Worth's population has passed one million people, and the city is now the fourth biggest in Texas. Mayor Mattie Parker says the addition of a film studio can "fuel our growth while keeping our economy bold and diverse."
"With Hillwood’s legacy of leadership in infrastructure development and innovation, it’s fitting that AllianceTexas serves as a hub for creative production with the addition of the new SGS production campus. This move is significant in showcasing what Fort Worth can offer to attract major productions that create jobs and foster continued industry growth," she says.
Hillwood says the campus in Far North Fort Worth will provide easy access to Alliance Airport, DFW Airport and "versatile shooting locations, including Circle T Ranch and surrounding built environments." The company says business development across the AllianceTexas development will provide housing, hotels and transportation options.
Sheridan's SGS Studios is working with Tarrant County College to develop training programs in set construction and other jobs needed for film and television production.