Dallas, February 11, 2026
In a revitalization effort, the former St. Luke Community United Methodist Church in the Mill City neighborhood has been transformed into a vibrant community center. Spearheaded by the Real Estate Council’s Associate Leadership Council, this renovation is part of a broader $1 million initiative to rejuvenate the Mill City area, which has faced economic challenges and urban blight. The project included extensive renovations to preserve the historic building while addressing structural issues, ensuring it serves as a hub for community activity.
Dallas Partners Transform Historic Church into Community Center
Dallas, Texas – A collaborative effort has successfully converted the former St. Luke Community United Methodist Church into a vibrant community center, aiming to revitalize the Mill City neighborhood.
Project Overview
The renovation of the historic church building, which had been vacant for over a decade, was completed in December 2025. The project was spearheaded by the Real Estate Council’s Associate Leadership Council (ALC), a professional development program, in partnership with the Mill City Community Association, Builders of Hope Community Development Corporation, and Urban Specialists. The initiative was part of a broader $1 million commitment over three years to rejuvenate the Mill City area, which is located southeast of Fair Park in Dallas.
Renovation Details
The church, originally built in 1941 and rebuilt in 1956 after a fire, had fallen into disrepair. The renovation team faced significant challenges, including water damage and structural issues. To preserve the building’s historical facade, they constructed new internal walls and added a new roof, employing advanced rehabilitation techniques. The project concluded with an investment exceeding $600,000.
Community Impact
The revitalized center is expected to serve as a hub for community activities, offering spaces for meetings, events, and local programs. Residents and community leaders anticipate that the center will play a pivotal role in fostering community engagement and addressing local needs.
Background Context
The Mill City neighborhood, adjacent to Fair Park, has experienced economic challenges and urban blight over the years. In December 2023, the Real Estate Council selected Mill City as the next focus for its Dallas Catalyst Project, aiming to invest $1 million over three years to revitalize the area. This initiative includes renovating vacant lots, upgrading infrastructure, and creating community spaces such as an urban farm and a boxing gym.
Additional Developments in Mill City
In June 2025, the Innercity Community Development Corporation reopened its 15,000-square-foot headquarters in Mill City, marking the first step in the Dallas Catalyst Project’s three-year, $1 million initiative to revive the neighborhood. The renovation was funded by The Real Estate Council’s philanthropic arm, TREC Community Investors.
These efforts reflect a concerted commitment to revitalizing Mill City, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its residents and promote sustainable community development.
Weather Update
Recent weather conditions in Dallas have been favorable for construction and community activities. The temperatures have ranged from a low of 10.0°C (50.0°F) to a high of 28.9°C (84.0°F), providing a conducive environment for outdoor work and events.
Key Features of the Renovation Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Building History | Originally built in 1941 and rebuilt in 1956 after a fire; had been vacant for over a decade prior to renovation. |
| Renovation Challenges | Addressed water damage and structural issues; preserved historical facade through advanced rehabilitation techniques. |
| Investment | Project concluded with an investment exceeding $600,000. |
| Community Impact | Expected to serve as a hub for community activities, offering spaces for meetings, events, and local programs. |
| Broader Initiative | Part of a $1 million commitment over three years to rejuvenate the Mill City area, including renovating vacant lots and creating community spaces. |
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