A century and a quarter ago Freese and Nichols began business in 1894 after being founded by John Blackstock Hawley. The company has been based in Fort Worth since its beginning, designing new landmarks for the city.
These landmarks include the Phyllis J. Tilley Memorial Pedestrian Bridge, the Clearfork Main Street Bridge, and the upcoming Panther Island Bridges. The company also provides accredited professional development coursework for employees and client groups through Freese and Nichols University, funds scholarships at Texas universities, and sponsors educational events for local elementary, middle, and high school students.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the Fort Worth City Council honored the company and its service to the city with a proclamation celebrating the company’s 125th anniversary.
“Freese and Nichols is one of our city’s venerable institutions that makes Fort Worth such a great place to live and work,” said District 3 Councilman Brian Byrd, in whose district the company sits. “They continue to provide the highest level engineering and consulting that ensures quality drinking water, safe water reservoirs, and durable and beautiful infrastructure.”
Freese and Nichols’ workforce has grown to more than 800 nationally, including more than 300 people in Fort Worth.