The Lake Como neighborhood in west Fort Worth has been named the best in the United States for the third consecutive year. The honor was presented by Neighborhoods USA during its virtual conference in May. This national recognition follows earlier local accolades, including the title of Fort Worth’s Neighborhood of the Year, which was awarded in March during the Mayor’s Community Engagement Neighborhood Awards. The Fort Worth City Council formally recognized the neighborhood in June for achieving this three-year streak of national awards.
Kendra Williams and Carol Brown, a coordinator at the Como Community Center for 35 years, represented the area at the national event. Williams noted that while the neighborhood has faced negative perceptions, it functions as a close-knit family where residents have driven positive change and youth have achieved success. Williams stated that the community is working to change the narrative that Lake Como is defined solely by crime. She described the area as a historic, resilient community that has existed for more than 120 years, emphasizing that it offers more than just violence.
The Lake Como Neighborhood Advisory Council, which was established under the Citywide Citizen Participation Plan to encourage resident involvement in city decision-making, works to promote civic spirit and improve public services. In March, the neighborhood also secured first place in several local categories, including Code Compliance Officer of the Year, Community Collaboration and Engagement, Fort Worth Pride, and Safety First Neighborhood. Williams was named first runner-up for the Neighbor of the Year award.
Winning the local title allowed Lake Como to compete in the Neighborhood USA Conference against other communities nationwide. The nonprofit organization Neighborhoods USA, founded in 1975, focuses on strengthening neighborhood organizations by sharing information and highlighting successful community experiences.
Residents highlighted several ongoing programs, including Como Fest, an annual family festival organized by Legacy Lake Como featuring music and vendors, and an annual July 4 parade. Williams and Brown also lead Friday Night Lights, a weekly initiative providing meals and safe spaces for youth. Additionally, Williams operates Richelle’s Heart, a nonprofit established in memory of her mother. The organization hosts a Juneteenth celebration with a walk and financial workshops, and is launching a Next Step Scholarship Success program to teach students how to graduate college debt-free.
