In a significant move towards community reconnection, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) have secured an $80 million federal grant for the Bridging Highway Divides for DFW Communities project. This initiative aims to mend the social fabric by constructing pedestrian caps at four key locations across the region.
The project's allocation includes $20 million each for Interstate Highway 30 (Dallas IH 30) and Klyde Warren Park, $25 million for Southern Gateway Park, and $15 million for State Highway 5 (McKinney SH 5).
Dallas IH 30 will witness the construction of support structures for three pedestrian caps, strategically placed south of the Dallas Farmers Market and north of Old City Park. This effort will synchronize with TxDOT’s ongoing reconstruction of IH 30, ensuring efficient use of resources.
Expressing support for the initiative, Dallas City Council Member Omar Narvaez emphasized the collaborative efforts of the Regional Transportation Council and the City of Dallas.
Phase two of construction at Klyde Warren Park and Southern Gateway Park will expand existing pedestrian crossings, enhancing amenities and connectivity. Jody Grant, Chairman of the Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation, hailed the grant, which will add 1.7 acres to Klyde Warren Park, fulfilling a long-held vision.
In the Southern Gateway Park, the expanded deck park will span over five acres across I-35E, offering diverse recreational and transportation facilities. City of Dallas Deputy Mayor Pro Tem and Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold highlighted the project's potential to stimulate economic development in the Southern Sector.
McKinney SH 5 will witness the creation of the Lower 5 Plaza, facilitating pedestrian access and community cohesion. Mayor George Fuller welcomed the federal funding, emphasizing its role in bridging divides within McKinney.
Karla Windsor, NCTCOG Senior Program Manager, emphasized the project's aim to address historical inequities and foster unity within the affected communities.
The grant, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, is a component of the U.S. Department of Transportation's $3.15 billion Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant Program. Its approval underscores the commitment to collaboration at the state and regional levels, as highlighted by Regional Transportation Council Chair and City of Fort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Gyna M. Bivens.
