The Dallas City Council has approved a set of major zoning changes aimed at protecting and growing South Dallas. The updated South Dallas/Fair Park Special Purpose District, or PD 595, now determines zoning for more than 3,000 acres in the area.

Community-Led Effort

The changes come after years of city staff work, a COVID-19 delay, and dozens of community meetings. The goal is to revitalize economic growth in South Dallas while protecting neighbors from displacement, especially combating “grossly incompatible” housing that has popped up next to older homes.

At the city council meeting, South Dallas residents spoke in favor of the zoning change and showed appreciation for the attention to historic preservation and housing opportunities. District 7 Councilmember Adam Bazaldua was emotional as he introduced the item, calling it one of the most important votes he’s ever cast as a member of the Dallas City Council.

“This was not a process that was built for the community,” Bazaldua said. “This was a process built by the community.” He added that despite delays like the COVID-19 pandemic, South Dallas residents remained committed to seeing this zoning project through.

South Dallas leaders who spoke in favor of the item said the next step is ensuring the zoning changes are consistently applied and enforced. Diane Ragsdale, a former city council member who helped create the original PD 595, recommended establishing a dedicated implementation entity and identifying a reliable funding source to coordinate efforts and facilitate projects.

Original reporting: Dallas Free Press — read the source article.