Dallas City Council gave the final go‑ahead to a major mixed‑use project in the upscale Preston Hollow neighborhood on Tuesday, voting 9‑6 to approve an $800 million development that will feature a 19‑story hotel and an 18‑story apartment tower at the corner of Preston Road and Royal Lane.
Council vote and staff recommendation
City staff recommended approval, arguing that the project is consistent with the city’s ForwardDallas 2.0 comprehensive plan, which encourages higher‑density, mixed‑use development in appropriate locations to support economic growth and housing affordability. Councilmember Bill Roth raised a motion to reduce the height to 12 stories, but the amendment was defeated by the same 9‑6 margin that carried the overall approval.
Resident concerns
Opposition came primarily from a local nonprofit, Preserve Preston Hollow, and a group of homeowners who attended a two‑and‑a‑half‑hour public comment session. Long‑time resident Laura Green warned that the proposed height would block morning sunlight, increase glare in the afternoon, and create light pollution at night, potentially harming property values and quality of life. Several speakers echoed worries about increased traffic and the visual impact of a skyscraper in a neighborhood traditionally zoned for five‑story structures.
Support for the project
Not all voices were against the development. Kenzey Shelton Hayman expressed enthusiasm, noting that the new towers would bring walkable amenities, reduce reliance on cars, and improve pedestrian access to nearby services such as the post office, Tom Thumb grocery, and the Northaven Trail bike path. She highlighted the potential for a more vibrant, pedestrian‑friendly streetscape if crosswalks are upgraded.
Project background
The site has been owned by developer Leland Burk since 2017. It suffered tornado damage in 2019, prompting a redesign that reduced the original 28‑story proposal to the current 19‑ and 18‑story configuration. Although the area’s zoning permits only five‑story buildings, the council’s decision reflects a broader city strategy to accommodate growth while preserving the character of established neighborhoods through careful planning.
What’s next?
With council approval secured, the developer will move forward with detailed design work, securing any remaining permits and beginning construction. The city will continue to monitor the project’s impact on traffic, infrastructure and neighborhood aesthetics, ensuring that the development aligns with the goals of ForwardDallas 2.0 and addresses legitimate community concerns.
Community response
Local residents remain divided. While some fear that the towers will cast long shadows and alter the historic low‑rise feel of Preston Hollow, others see an opportunity for modern housing, increased property values and a more walkable environment. The council’s decision underscores Dallas’s commitment to balancing growth with the preservation of community character.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
