Walter Williams, known for his Dallas eatery, supports Pearl Ridge, a 200-home development aimed at fostering ownership and local economic growth, slated for 2027.

DALLAS — Most people know Walter Williams for his food at Sweet Georgia Brown. It’s been a staple in Southern Dallas since 1992 and he’s hoping to welcome even more people with the newest housing development in the area that will be known as Pearl Ridge.

Pearl Ridge will bring more than 200 homes to 6601 S. Lancaster Road.

“It’s a brilliant move,” Williams said. “This has been a long time coming.”

Innovan Neighborhoods is constructing homes on 16 acres of land. What makes it different from other housing development projects is that these are not for rent. Once constructed, it will be a 100% for-sale residential community that people can buy at a market rate.

“Everything is for rent and nothing is for sale,” is what Dallas City Councilmember Lorie Blair said she consistently hears from her constituents. Blair represents District 8 where the new development project will be located.

“People want to own where they live and [they also] want to be able to pass down something to the next generation,” Blair said.

Blair joined other city and community leaders, including Williams, for the groundbreaking on March 26.

“There’s a lot of apartments but there’s nothing like a home,” Williams added. “More investment means more activity and it goes full circle [in the local economy].”

The Pearl Ridge development is part of the city’s plan announced in 2021 to build 1,000 units of housing for mixed-income residents that’s close to public transit.

“It’s on a TOD or a transit-oriented district, which means you can walk to get on DART and go into downtown instead of driving,” said Blair. “It’s right there on a trail, so you bike and walk… and it’s right across the street from our Singing Hills Recreation Center.”

As for Williams, he pointed out that the restaurant industry has been challenging over the last several years. Development signals growth, which ensures local businesses like his will stay afloat.

“Nothing is guaranteed. We need all the help we can get,” Williams said.

Homes in Pearl Ridge will range between the high $200,000s and $400,000 and are expected to be complete by 2027.

“This is the start of choices for what’s available and what’s out there,” Blair said.