The City of Dallas has broken ground on an infrastructure project near the University of North Texas – Dallas that could lead to more opportunities for economic growth in the area.
City officials say the site from West University Boulevard to the north of Camp Wisdom needs improvements to its water and sewer mains before developers can build on it.
“We are lacking infrastructure in the southern part of Dallas,” said Councilman Tennell Atkins. Developers want to build in the southern part of Dallas but are being told that they have to pay for the cost of the infrastructure, he explained.
To create the necessary infrastructure to support future developments, the City is replacing the aging septic system with new underground water and sewer lines.
On Thursday, city officials, local residents, and staff members from UNT-Dallas gathered to watch officials with Dallas Water Utilities break ground on the highly-anticipated infrastructure project. Construction of nearly 3,500 feet of wastewater mains is part of Phase One improvements, according to reporting by WFAA.
With the long-awaited infrastructure improvement now underway, lawmakers anticipate the site will attract eager developers as well as provide new opportunities for economic growth. Increased economic opportunities will hopefully draw people to the area for housing and jobs.
“With us placing water and sewage in the ground, we are leveling the playing field,” said Texas Senator Royce West of Dallas.
To support the area’s already-growing population, President of UNT-Dallas Bob Mong wants to see the area build more supermarkets and grocery stores.
“People come and live because of schools, because of retail. Somebody has to take the lead [in] putting a grocery store in this neighborhood. And I think all of us are sick of excuses,” said Mong.
Local supporters of the infrastructure project are enthusiastic for future developments to begin and are hopeful the economic growth will lead to an increase in home value for the surrounding neighborhoods.
Still, as reported by The Dallas Express, Dallas’ building permitting process also creates obstacles in development, according to complaints from builders and contractors.