This story originally appeared in Park Cities People.
North Texas’ Urban Land Institute (ULI) believes that there are many walkable opportunities for Dallas and its surrounding communities. The nonprofit has increased its presence in Dallas recently, as it prepares to begin work on making these areas more walkable.
ULI volunteer Scott Polikov told Park Cities People that the increase in the use of public transportation in Dallas in the past five years has encouraged residents to seek out more walkable areas.
On of the focus areas for ULI work is The Statler Hotel, located at the intersection of Commerce and Harwood. The Statler Corridor project received the organization’s 2017 Next Big Idea Award. The award is presented annual to innovative projects that can positively impact the region’s quality of life, such as improving the quality of the built environment, the way in which planning and development are conducted, construction affordability, financing or other aspects of development.
According to Park Cities People, that project will include renovations that will cost more than $200 million, offering continuing development in the area while maintaining environmental health.
“Dallas has the potential to be a strong walking city,” Polikov told Park Cities People. “There’s a real chance to have, in a way, a village-like feel depending on what we do in terms of greenspace. ULI works all over the country, and Dallas has as much potential as any other city.”
ABOUT THE URBAN LAND INSTITUTE
The Urban Land Institute is a non-profit, education and research institute, supported by its members. Its mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land and in sustaining and creating, thriving communities worldwide. Established in 1936, the Institute has roughly 40,000 members worldwide and over 1300 members in North Texas, representing all aspects of land use and development disciplines. Find out more on the organization’s website.
