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What are the details about the second deck park coming to Dallas and how will it impact the community?
The second deck park, known as the "Southern Gateway Deck Park," will cover a 5-acre area, significantly larger than the city's first deck park, Klyde Warren Park.
The park is designed to reconnect the Oak Cliff neighborhood, which was divided by the construction of Interstate 35E in the 1950s, providing a much-needed green space and pedestrian bridge.
Approximately 40% of the funding for the $82 million project is coming from a $40 million grant awarded by the North Central Texas Council of Governments' Regional Transportation Council.
The park's design incorporates sustainable features like permeable pavement and native Texas landscaping, which are expected to reduce urban heat island effects and improve stormwater management.
Community engagement has been a key focus, with the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation hosting numerous public workshops to gather input on the park's programming and design.
The park is strategically located near the Dallas Zoo, and plans are underway to create seamless pedestrian connections between the two attractions, encouraging visitors to explore both.
Researchers estimate the park could provide an annual economic boost of $15 million to the surrounding community through increased property values, tourism, and local business activity.
The park's design includes a dedicated performance stage and flexible event spaces, aiming to host a variety of community events and cultural programs.
To promote accessibility, the park will feature multiple entry points, including an ADA-compliant ramp system and bicycle-friendly paths, ensuring it is welcoming to all visitors.
Ecological studies have shown that the park's native plantings and green spaces will help improve air quality and provide habitat for urban wildlife, enhancing the overall ecosystem.
The park's construction will involve innovative engineering techniques, such as the use of specialized lightweight concrete to support the deck structure over the busy interstate.
Once completed, the Southern Gateway Deck Park is expected to become a new landmark for Dallas, drawing visitors from across the region and serving as a hub for community gatherings and outdoor recreation.
The park's design includes dedicated spaces for educational programming, with plans to partner with local schools and organizations to offer STEM-focused activities and environmental workshops.
Developers have worked closely with the Texas Department of Transportation to ensure the park's integration with ongoing infrastructure improvements along the Interstate 35E corridor.
Compared to the first deck park, the Southern Gateway Deck Park will feature a more diverse range of recreational amenities, including a splash pad, climbing structures, and a dog park.
The park's construction is expected to create hundreds of temporary jobs in the local community, providing economic opportunities during the development phase.
To promote long-term sustainability, the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation has developed a comprehensive maintenance and operations plan, ensuring the park remains a well-maintained community asset.
The park's location near the Dallas Zoo and other cultural attractions is expected to boost tourism and generate additional revenue for the city, contributing to its overall economic development.
The Southern Gateway Deck Park is part of a broader initiative by the City of Dallas to expand its network of urban green spaces and improve connectivity throughout the city's neighborhoods.
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