One of the largest rezoning proposals in Dallas history, the Oak Cliff Gateway is a tremendous effort to polish and brighten North Oak Cliff’s more public face that has been several years in the making
But not everyone sees the Gateway plan as the best way to redevelop Oak Cliff. Its lack of building standards grates the Old Oak Cliff Conservation League, which pointed to the new Magnolia apartments as an example of how a new development can be completely out of character in an established neighborhood. And many residents feel burned by the Bishop/Davis rezoning, which has several flaws that are yet to be addressed. Likewise, it’d be naive to assume that the proposed gateway will only have positive impacts on the neighborhood.
Truly, Oak Cliff is a case study in redevelopment with consideration. But what will the new development regulations do to an area that wants to maintain its own feel, keep its character, and maintain some of the charm that makes Oak Cliff a great place to live?
To find out, you have to read this farewell to the “Oak Cliff ‘Oh’ “ from The Advocate. They offer an extensive timeline of Oak Cliff’s redevelopment, including some information about the Gateway rezoning.
And while it seems to be a very thought-out plan that might be worth implementing, some very influential preservationists disagree with parts of the proposal. Just this month, the Old Oak Cliff Conservation League proposed a list of economic incentives for preserving existing structures within the Oak Cliff Gateway. The proposal would:
1. Advocate 100% reduction in parking requirements for retail/office uses in Legacy Structures
2. Advocate 50% reduction in parking requirements for residential uses in Legacy Structures
3. Advocate Conditional Use permits for restaurants, office and retail located in CIty of Dallas Landmarks in any area of the Gateway.
4. Advocate Conditional Use permits for Bed and Breakfasts in City of Dallas Landmarks or National Register properties in any area of the Gateway.
5. Remove the Lancaster Commercial National Register Historic District from the Gateway or cap the height at 2-stories
The Gateway plan could head to the full council as soon as next month. It’s definitely a case you’ll want to watch.
What are your thoughts on this ambitious rezoning proposal?
