Dallas, January 29, 2026
The Dallas City Council has approved an $8 million funding allocation for the first phase of Halperin Park, a new green space set to be developed over Interstate 35E. This innovative park aims to reconnect neighborhoods divided by the freeway, featuring amenities like water features, a playground, and a community building. The park is expected to open in spring 2026, with a total projected cost of $300 million for all phases of development.
Dallas City Council Allocates $8 Million to Complete Phase One of Southern Dallas Deck Park
What is Halperin Park?
Halperin Park is a new deck park being developed over Interstate 35E in southern Dallas. It is designed to provide a green space that reconnects neighborhoods divided by the freeway, offering amenities such as water features, a playground, a band shell, and a community building.
How much funding has the Dallas City Council approved for Halperin Park?
The Dallas City Council has approved an $8 million funding allocation to support the completion of Halperin Park’s first phase.
What are the key features of Halperin Park?
Key features of Halperin Park include water elements, a playground, a band shell, and a flexible community building designed to host various events. The park also aims to honor local visionaries through its 12th Street Promenade.
When is Halperin Park expected to open?
The first phase of Halperin Park is expected to open in spring 2026, with future phases planned to further develop the park’s infrastructure.
What is the total projected cost of Halperin Park?
The total projected cost of Halperin Park is approximately $300 million, encompassing all phases of development.
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas City Council has made a significant move to enhance community spaces by approving an $8 million funding allocation to advance the development of Halperin Park. This innovative deck park, set to be located over Interstate 35E, aims to serve as a vibrant hub in southern Dallas as it approaches its anticipated spring 2026 opening.
Funding Details
The approved funding for Halperin Park comprises nearly $7 million secured from the Oak Cliff Gateway Tax Increment Financing District, leveraging future tax revenue generated from nearby developments. Additionally, around $1 million derived from discretionary bond funds directed by Mayor Eric Johnson plays a vital role in ensuring the park’s completion and operational sustainability during its initial phase.
Park Features and Community Impact
Designed as a welcoming green space, Halperin Park will feature multiple amenities including interactive water elements, a playground, a band shell for performances, and a flexible community building that can host a variety of local events. The park’s development aims to bridge the gap caused by the construction of I-35E, specifically targeting community reconnection in the Oak Cliff area. Furthermore, its 12th Street Promenade will honor local visionaries, emphasizing the cultural significance of the area and fostering community pride.
Project Timeline and Future Phases
The first phase of Halperin Park, which stretches between Ewing and Lancaster avenues, is nearing completion and is scheduled for a grand opening in spring 2026. Looking ahead, the project’s second phase includes the construction of a tunnel, with design and engineering expected to take approximately two years. Overall, once fully developed, the park is projected to incur a total estimated cost of about $300 million.
Background Context
Halperin Park marks the second deck park development in Dallas, following the successful Klyde Warren Park in Uptown. The Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation manages the project and has raised over $200 million in funding for its development efforts. Strategically located opposite the iconic Dallas Zoo, the park aims to establish a recreational space that will benefit both residents and visitors alike, enhancing the overall urban landscape and community connectivity.
Key Features of Halperin Park
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Features | Interactive water elements designed for recreation and aesthetic appeal. |
| Playground | A playground area designed to look like a treehouse, paying tribute to Oak Cliff’s Blackland Prairie ecosystem. |
| Band Shell | A performance pavilion for hosting various events and gatherings. |
| Community Building | A flexible space intended to host a variety of community events and activities. |
| 12th Street Promenade | A planned area to honor local visionaries from the Oak Cliff neighborhood. |
In conclusion, the investment in Halperin Park signals a positive outlook for the southern Dallas community, highlighting the commitment to enhancing local spaces that promote economic growth and community engagement. As the park comes to fruition, it will undoubtedly provide a valuable resource for local residents and contribute to the overall economic vitality of Dallas. Local entrepreneurs, businesses, and residents are encouraged to stay engaged and support efforts that bolster community development and innovation.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
