The second phase of a waterfront restaurant complex project is set to begin in November. Located on Lake Ray Hubbard, the development is a part of the $1 billion Sapphire Bay mixed-use project.
The Sapphire Bay development is established off Interstate 30 in Rowlett. The land faces the lake, which the City of Dallas sold to the City of Rowlett in 2015.
The project includes various developments, such as a seven-acre lagoon and resort. The resort features boat rentals, boat dockage centers, and dock houses.
Sapphire Bay will include offices, retail spaces, luxury homes, and apartments. The restaurant is a key piece that helps completes the area and provide residents with a place to eat.
Developers announced the restaurant project, which they named Baywalk, in February. It will be handled by private investor SBM LLC and Dallas’ Retail Street Advisors.
The space is designed by Dallas architect Omniplan who also worked on Stream Realty Partners’ development on the Quadrangle in Uptown Dallas.
The marina restaurant complex specifically will take up to 108,446 square feet of land, according to planning documents filed with the state, and is estimated to cost roughly $3 million.
In a statement, Aaron Stephenson, speaking for Retail Street Advisors, said that Baywalk will be “the fun front porch of the Rowlett community and a convenient retreat for the D-FW region.”
Developers hope Baywalk will make for an engaging and memorable environment with its combination of water views, local cafes and pubs, and interactive outdoor settings.
For Omniplan’s team member Randy Stone, Baywalk’s attraction lies in its proximity to many DFW neighborhoods, allowing for easy access.
Stone added that the restaurant complex will serve a wide range of customers, from families who want to spend quality time together to sports enthusiasts who seek an exciting lakefront experience.
Stone noted, “This unique boardwalk experience with waterfront views will create a vibrant spot to unwind in a casual environment with friends and family, exactly what communities and restaurateurs are seeking today.”
Rowlett mayor Tammy Dana-Bashian sees beyond Baywalk’s offering of a great environment for Rowlett residents, as she believes the restaurant will be an attraction for “the greater Metroplex.”