Kirk Millican Plays Key Role in Shaping Downtown Fort Worth
Before any construction can begin in Downtown Fort Worth, the City’s Downtown Design Review Board (DDRB) must review and approve the proposed plans. This board, which plays a key role in shaping Downtown’s evolving urban landscape, is now chaired by Freese and Nichols Senior Consultant Kirk Millican.
Kirk, a 13-year veteran of our firm and a leader in our Architecture group, guides the DDRB in evaluating whether projects align with Downtown design standards. The board conducts formal hearings to determine the appropriateness of:
- Constructing new buildings or parking lots
- Expanding or remodeling existing exterior structures
- Installing or modifying signage, sidewalks, and lighting fixtures
If the project is approved, it is issued a Certificate of Appropriateness from the board, which is a requirement to then receive a building permit in Downtown. Some of the board’s recent decisions have included the construction of the Deco 969 apartment building and the City Council Chambers.
The Downtown Urban Design District of Fort Worth, includes all areas north of Interstate 30, west of Interstate 35W, south of Northside Drive and east of the Trinity River and 15th Street.
In addition, the board also reviews and “blesses” changes to DDRB guidelines and design standards. These guidelines are created to ensure a positive development of downtown to enhance Downtown Fort Worth’s economic vitality, Kirk said.
“We want downtown to be a desirable, working and living environment for citizens and those who are coming from out of town,” Kirk said.
As chair, Kirk leads meetings, asks questions to applicants and board members, and make sure the board is effectively managed. He is unable to make a motion of approval on an idea presented to the board but opens them up for discussion. While Kirk’s role as chair has not changed over time, DDRB’s importance has been enhanced.
“It shows what Freese and Nichols is doing for the community and shows Freese and Nichols’ commitment to the city and the environment,” Kirk said.
Kirk has served three separate terms within the board. He originally joined in 2007 and served for eight years as chair. After taking a year off, he rejoined in 2016 for seven years, took a two-year break in 2023 and rejoined in May 2025. He was elected as chair by the board itself. Kirk also served as the chair of the City of Fort Worth Art Commission between 2007 and 2013.
His leadership reflects a continued commitment to shaping Fort Worth’s urban landscape through thoughtful design and community engagement.