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Spotlight: The Opal — A Tribute to the Grandmother of Juneteenth
Location: 13445 Green Cedar Ave Ft Worth, TX 76262
In a moment that symbolized both progress and reverence, Fort Worth celebrated a powerful milestone on April 17, 2025—the grand opening of The Opal. This mixed-income housing community stands as an enduring tribute to Opal Lee, affectionately known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth." For decades, Ms. Opal tirelessly championed the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday, earning her a place in history as a fierce advocate for equality and justice.
The Opal is more than just 338 workforce apartment homes; it represents a vision for a city where affordable housing becomes a cornerstone of opportunity. “I dream there will be more Opals across the city,” Lee declared, her voice carrying both hope and determination. Her dream is shared by Fort Worth Housing Solutions and AMTEX, who partnered on the creation of this 17.5-acre development. It joins its sister property, The Holston—a workforce apartment complex named after another trailblazer, Barbara Holston—creating a vibrant beacon of affordable living along Keller Haslet Road.
Constructed with care and purpose, The Opal offers a diverse range of apartment homes for households of varying income levels, including 45 percent reserved for those earning 80 percent or less of the area median income and five percent for those earning 50 percent or less of the area median income. The property features amenities designed for community-building and quality of life: from an outdoor swimming pool and playground to a playful children’s section in the fitness center to a media room brimming with arcade games, fostering spaces where families can grow and thrive.
Yet, the true significance of The Opal lies in its broader mission. It addresses the challenges faced by Fort Worth—a city grappling with population growth, soaring housing costs, and dwindling availability for low- and middle-income residents. Stephen Clarke of AMTEX encapsulated this mission, saying, “We look forward to strengthening our partnership and continuing to provide Fort Worth residents with high-quality, affordable housing today and in the future.”
Echoing Opal Lee’s words, InterBank’s Terry Smith, the project’s construction lender, delivered a heartfelt message: “A better living and quality of life shouldn’t be luxuries, but accessible to all members of our community. Your legacy, Ms. Lee, will live on—not just in the name of this property, but in the profound impact it will have on countless families for generations.”
A better living and quality of life shouldn't be luxuries, but accessible to all members of our community.
UNITS & COMPOSITION
338 units with approximately half reserved for individuals and families earning 50% to 80% of the area median income (AMI)
FUNDING
This project was fully funded through private sources. It includes a $49.31 million construction loan from Interbank, a community-focused bank serving Texas and Oklahoma, and $33.5 million in private equity. Of that equity, $16.75 million was provided by Bank of America's Community Development Banking, which specializes in financing affordable and workforce housing. Notably, no government financing or subsidies were required to bring this development to life.
RESIDENT PROFILE
Mixed-income housing for individuals and families created to help people who work to provide vital services in the community find housing near the neighborhood in which they work.
AMENITIES
• Resident Clubhouse with Entertainment Kitchen
• Resort-Style Swimming Pool with Tanning Shelf & Fountain
• Relaxing Pavilion with Outdoor Kitchen
• Outdoor Grills, Firepits, & Seating Areas for Gathering
• Children’s Playground
• Business Center with Conference Room
• State-of-the-Art Fitness Center
• High-Speed Wi-Fi Access
• Enclosed Vehicle Parking Spaces
• Package Lockers
A Tribute & A Promise
For Opal Lee, The Opal is both a tribute and a promise—a promise to continue fighting for dignity, equity, and a home for every person who dreams of stability. Her legacy shines brightly here, a reminder that progress is possible when the heart leads the way.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Greystar, the property manager, plays a pivotal role in fostering community spirit among residents by hosting engaging events. Some examples of resident events hosted by Greystar include:
• Holiday Celebrations: Festive gatherings like Halloween costume contests, Thanksgiving potlucks, or Christmas tree decorating create opportunities for residents to share holiday cheer.
• Movie Nights: Screening popular films outdoors or in a community lounge lets residents unwind together in a relaxed setting.
• Game Nights or Tournaments: Board games, trivia, or friendly sports competitions encourage camaraderie and friendly rivalry.
• Food Truck or BBQ Events: These gatherings provide a fun and delicious way for neighbors to mingle.
• Seasonal Events: Spring gardening workshops or summer pool parties celebrate the changing seasons and inspire engagement.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Kid-friendly events like crafts sessions, scavenger hunts, or story time cater to families and create lasting memories.
Built Green so Residents Can Save Even More!
National Green Building Standard Certification for energy efficiency, water efficiency, resource efficiency, lot development, operation & maintenance, and indoor environmental quality.
ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction (MFNC) program certification
CREDITS
Developer: AMCAL and Fort Worth Housing Solutions
Lender: Interbank
Architect: HEDK Architects
For More Information, Contact: Stephen Clarke, AMCAL/AMTEX, Phone: (818) 706-0694 ext. 109, sclarke@amcalhousing.com
