Dallas housing advocates are mobilizing residents ahead of what could become the city’s most significant zoning overhaul in decades.
The Dallas Housing Coalition launched its “Be My Neighbor” campaign, encouraging residents to learn about and participate in the city’s ongoing effort to rewrite its zoning code for the first time since the 1980s.
Supporters say the changes could expand opportunities for neighborhood businesses and the types of housing allowed across Dallas, including duplexes, townhomes, condominiums and smaller homes, with the goal of increasing housing options and addressing affordability.
“If these changes are adopted over the next year and a half, we would hope that new housing will be built that suits everybody’s varied housing preferences or needs for whatever stage of life they’re in,” said Bryan Tony, executive director of the Dallas Housing Coalition.
Tony explained, “Some are first time homebuyers, some are seniors who are looking to downsize. We also have our workforce housing our teachers, our police, our firefighters who would like to live in the communities that they serve but cannot find housing currently that fits that need.”
The campaign launch included a workshop for residents, discussions about the proposed zoning reforms and a screening of a documentary examining the history of zoning in Dallas and its impact on neighborhoods and housing opportunities. Attendees split into small groups to brainstorm around strategies to garner more support.
The City of Dallas is expected to release the first draft of the new zoning code in October. Residents will have opportunities to provide public input before the proposal moves to the City Plan Commission and the Dallas City Council for consideration.
You can learn more about the zoning reform timeline and next steps from the city here,as well as how to get involved and see the documentary and related resources on Dallas’ zoning history here.
