The Dallas City Council could greenlight a major transformation at Fair Park on Wednesday.
Members are set to vote on a development agreement that would allow a nonprofit to build a new 10-and-a-half-acre community park near Fitzhugh and Lagow streets.
If approved, the agreement would clear the way for construction on the $40 million project, which supporters describe as a long-awaited investment in South Dallas.
What council is being asked to approve
Council members will consider a Fair Park funding and development agreement between the City of Dallas and Fair Park First, a Texas nonprofit corporation formed to help improve Fair Park.
Under the proposed agreement, Fair Park First would be responsible for raising enough money to fully fund the construction contract, based on the 100% design development cost estimate and project contingency, within six months of the agreement being
Project details
The proposed 10.5-acre community park would be located on the east side of Fair Park near Fitzhugh Avenue and Lagow Street, replacing what is currently Fair Park’s largest parking lot.
According to Fair Park First, the park design incorporates 100% of the amenities requested through community input.
Planned features include:
Expansive green spaceMultiple playgroundsInteractive water features, including a splash pad A community stageA fitness loop and outdoor fitness equipment Native gardens Shaded picnic areasWalking paths A dog park
The community park is a Phase I initiative of the 2020 Fair Park master plan update and is intended to create a more welcoming, year-round green space for surrounding neighborhoods.
“This project is about healing and finally delivering the kind of beautiful, safe, everyday park that South Dallas has always deserved,” Fair Park First Board Chair Jason Brown said.
Funding status
Fair Park First said it has raised more than $33 million toward the $40 million project, which is more than 80% of the funding needed.
However, under the terms of the agreement, the nonprofit must raise the remaining funds necessary to fully fund the construction contract within six months of the agreement being executed.
The agreement also requires regular financial reporting and allows the city to conduct audits during the term.
“We are committed to getting this park built, on this site, for this community, with full transparency and accountability along the way,” said Brown.
Timeline
If approved, construction is targeted to begin by Aug. 31, 2026. Fair Park First must begin construction within 90 days of permit issuance.
The organization would have 24 months to complete construction and would be tentatively expected to open in 2028.
A press conference is scheduled to be held in the lobby of Dallas City Hall immediately following Wednesday’s vote.
Supporters on the council have said the South Dallas community has waited years for this level of green space investment.
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