DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF)- Downtown Dallas Inc’s Fall Forum and Mayors state of Downtown brought in 800 people to The Omni Resort to hear what mayor Eric Johnson, a Dallas native had to say. Johnson talked about how Downtown is becoming more livable and vibrant with nearly 12,000 residents in the heart of Downtown.
He also talked about the AT&T Discovery District under construction. “This was a major investment for downtown- we’re talking about 40,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space, a water garden, a 6 story video wall and an outdoor gathering space,” Johnson said. “I truly think this will become a destination for all citizens in Dallas,” he said. Johnson said Downtown is attracting corporate headquarters, conventions, bringing in visitors and has a strong tech work force.
He also gave some insight to his vision for Downtown Dallas. He said they’re looking at community driven solutions to fix issues. He said a salvation army facility is set to open in South West Dallas to fix the homeless and panhandling issue and a mobility plan for easier and accessible methods of transit. “We have to make downtown Dallas more walk-able, more live-able and more navigable and that’s the commitment I’ll make to you today,” he said. “I believe the budget we passed will help keep Dallas safe and will continue to provide services that are vital to our Dallas’ equitable growth,” he said.
Downtown Dallas Inc. also unveiled an economic development plan highlighting more residential growth, commercial office space, new parks, hotels, restaurants and even opening 2 new high schools, a middle school and elementary school in the heart of downtown
“86 acres of development opportunity in downtown…I can assure you that that’s unlike any major market in the country to have that much development opportunity in the heart of a city,” said Kourtney Garret, Downtown Dallas Inc. CEO.
Garret said they they are committed to making Downtown Dallas a place to live not just to work and play by providing new opportunities for families.
