Over 25 years ago, a group of neighbors reimagined what an abandoned railroad line could be, formed the nonprofit Friends of the Katy Trail, and partnered with the City of Dallas to construct the Katy Trail, now one of Dallas’ most important and beloved public spaces. Citizens and tourists flock to this urban greenbelt park for physical and mental health, a nature experience, a sense of belonging, and alternative transportation.
Through the years, FKT has been the instrumental steward in the growth of the Katy Trail, with thoughtfulness and vision. From spearheading a successful $8.5 million capital campaign during a pandemic to creating partnerships that bring world class public art to the Trail, FKT has elevated the urban trail concept nationally.
FKT consistently invites the community to connect, contribute, and celebrate together with activations such as dog adoptions, charity walks, and the annual Katy 5K with 5,000 participants. And in a time when people crave connection and wellness, FKT’s impact continues to grow.
The Katy Trail is the “oceanfront property” of Dallas, with an economic impact in the last ten years of over $2 billion. Residents, businesses, and developers all want to be near the Katy Trail.
The FKT Staff and Board of Directors maintain an ambitious agenda, always looking to enhance the Katy Trail for the benefit of our community. In recent years, FKT added the Staubach Pass plaza at Harvard and the UT-Southwestern Fitness Center on the Trail’s South end. FKT’s work enriches the lives of Dallasites daily.
The Katy Trail links people, echoing the purpose of the railway that once ran its course: to connect. FKT has honored that legacy while helping to usher in a new example of productive public-private partnerships that change our city for the better and are part of this new “Golden Age” of Dallas parks.