The Pepper Square Shopping Center in far North Dallas is undergoing a major facelift, with plans to revitalize the area by adding 980 apartment units, retail space, and green space. The shopping center, located at the busy corner of Preston and Beltline, has seen a decline in tenants and an increase in empty parking spaces in recent years. The owner and developer, Henry S. Miller, is spearheading the redevelopment project in an effort to save the center.
The proposed plan for Pepper Square includes the addition of 980 apartment units, retail shops, restaurants, and two acres of green space. Renderings of the proposed zoning changes can be found online, showcasing a vibrant mixed-use development that aims to bring new life to the area. Lee Kleinman, Senior Advisor for Henry S. Miller, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting the community engagement and the benefits the redevelopment will bring to North Dallas.
While many residents, like Matt Bach, are supportive of the renovation of Pepper Square, there are concerns about the potential impact of the development on the already dense area. Bach and other nearby homeowners worry about increased traffic congestion and strain on city services due to the influx of housing units. The plan has garnered both praise and criticism from residents, with some expressing reservations about the scale and design of the project.
Urban planning experts point to successful revitalization efforts in other areas, like The Hillcrest Village shopping center, as examples of how redevelopment projects can benefit communities by providing new housing and dining options. Siram Villupuram, a UTA Finance & Real Estate Associate Professor who lives near Pepper Square, sees the project as a positive step towards attracting a younger population, creating jobs, and increasing revenue for the city.
The plan for Pepper Square is set to go before the Dallas City Planning and Zoning Commission for approval. Residents like Bach plan to attend the meeting to voice their concerns and advocate for a development that works for both the neighborhood and the city. While there are differing opinions on the project, the potential long-term benefits of revitalizing Pepper Square are clear, with the hope that the redevelopment will bring positive change to the area.