Tue Sep 10 18:37:58 UTC 2024: ## Dallas Moves Forward with Plans to Bridge the “I-30 Canyon” Divide

Dallas City Council is poised to approve $41 million in funding for two deck cap projects over I-30, marking a significant step towards bridging the physical and social divide created by the freeway. The initiative, aimed at connecting communities and fostering economic development, has been a long-standing goal for city officials and advocates.

The projects, which will be built in conjunction with the Texas Department of Transportation’s planned redesign of the I-30 corridor, will create deck parks over the freeway at Lamar Street and between St. Paul and Harwood Streets. These parks are envisioned as extensions of the successful Klyde Warren Park and the upcoming Southern Gateway Park, offering green spaces and pedestrian connections.

“Anything that connects South is a big deal to me, it’s a big deal to the city,” said Willis Johnson, a longtime radio host, political consultant, and entrepreneur, highlighting the project’s potential to address the long-standing disparity between north and south Dallas.

Downtown Dallas Inc. (DDI), an organization focused on economic development in the downtown area, has been a vocal supporter of the deck cap projects, viewing them as critical to “restitching” communities separated by I-30.

“These projects are really key opportunities that only happen once in a generation,” said Evan Sheets, vice president of planning and policy with DDI.

While detailed designs for the deck park between St. Paul and Harwood remain in development, concept plans for a Lamar Street deck park have been included in the 2023 update of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center master plan.

The city council’s approval of funding for these projects signifies a concrete commitment to bridging the “I-30 Canyon” and creating a more connected and equitable Dallas. The projects are expected to not only enhance the city’s infrastructure but also foster economic growth and community building, benefiting both residents and visitors.

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