Trinity Park Conservancy Purchases 106 W. Commerce
Part of Plans for Equitable Development and Future Funding
DALLAS – Trinity Park Conservancy purchased the former jail at 106 W. Commerce as part of the vision for Harold Simmons Park to generate significant economic, social and environmental value for the neighboring communities and all residents of Dallas. As part of a national trend of nonprofits which see their ability to influence equitable development and secure the funding essential to the long-term operations and maintenance of their projects through investments in the community, the Conservancy sees this purchase as an extension of their mission to fulfill the Balanced Vision Plan and transform the Trinity River area for recreation, environmental stewardship and economic growth.
The building, built in 1995, has been vacant for several years and was purchased by the Conservancy in March. Previously held by the State of Texas, the building is 238,000 square feet with ten stories, and had been vacant for several years. The zoning for the area includes commercial, retail, office, multi-family and miscellaneous use. Development plans for the building are still in the planning stage as the nonprofit works with the community to discover the needs and vision for this area.
“The Trinity Park Conservancy seeks to ensure that the value created by Harold Simmons Park is enjoyed equitably by neighboring communities and all residents of Dallas,” says Brent Brown, CEO/President of the Conservancy. “Studies show that parks have the ability to create economic stimulus for the surrounding area, but that comes with risk of gentrification and displacement. This building can be the catalyst for equitable development that does not leave behind those who have lived in the area for generations.”
In addition, the Conservancy joins a list of nonprofits such as Brooklyn Bridge Development Corp. and Houston’s Buffalo Bayou Partnership which are making investments in their community as a catalyst for equitable development but also as a source for sustainable funding to offset costs of the parks. The potential income from investments can provide the necessary funds for those expenses such as maintenance and operations that are historically harder to raise.
Over the summer, the Conservancy will review options for renovation and usage. While no decision has been made, the Conservancy is considering moving offices into this space for better access to the Park and to better support its needs. Other ideas being considered include shared work spaces for nonprofits and small businesses, spaces for Park-related services such as a bicycle repair shop or a refreshment stand and mixed-income housing. Plans will be finalized later in the year as designs and feasibility studies are completed. This property is not part of Harold Simmons Park and as such was made apart and separate from The Trinity River Corridor Local Government Corporation, as this is a larger part of fulfilling the mission of the Conservancy.
CONTACT: Jeamy Molina, Director of Communications and Engagement, [email protected], 214.740.1616 ext.14