DALLAS – Zoning change in Deep Ellum? Don’t worry.
Officials insist no one is trying to ruin the “cool” of Dallas’ “hottest” entertainment district.
Supporters say the proposal, which would require all businesses that stay open after midnight to get a “special use permit,” is intended to make the area safer.
“We believe that Deep Ellum has some of the most experienced and amazing late-night staff in the world,” said Stephanie Keller Hudiberg, executive director of the Deep Ellum Foundation. “They know how to run a business, and they know how to run a late-night business.”
Huddiberg said the region would benefit from standardizing rules for all late-night establishments, including those already operating under specific use permits (SUPs).
“Our safety plan is based on the idea that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Hudiberg said, “and that means patrons locking their cars, property owners keeping their properties well-lit, business owners doing their part, and the city of Dallas doing their part.”
As for next steps, Huddiberg said he’s pleased to see the proposal, which is part of a 14-point Community Safety Plan, begin moving forward. He said the city Planning Commission has agreed in principle to begin a public discussion on the proposal, which would reconsider acceptable noise levels for a community built around the arts and live music.
So look for plenty of opportunities to voice your opinion and participate in public hearings.
“I love coming here with my family,” owner Jacob Cox said, “We’re out until 3 a.m. and I’ve never felt unsafe a day in the last 10 years.”
Cox is a partner in Blender Brands, a group that already operates several businesses in Deep Ellum and plans to open a new pizza restaurant next month. He said he and his partners are still considering the merits of the proposed zoning change. Right now, he said, the biggest challenge is changing perceptions about whether the area is safe.
“When you compare Deep Ellum to other entertainment districts across the country, it’s an extremely safe place,” Cox said. “I’m not lying. That’s the reality.”
Now, some say further action must come from City Hall to make the area safer.
“We’re committed to Deep Ellum,” Cox said, “and we know it’s a great place, and we just want that recognition to stay in people’s minds.”
We’ll go into more detail on the next best steps to get you there shortly.
Robbie Owens