Jaime Resendez

My vision for Bruton, Lake June, and Buckner is to transform these streets into safe, pedestrian- and bike-friendly areas with quality housing, economic development, and recreational amenities that appeal to residents. Specific steps I’ve taken to realize this vision include the recently approved transit-oriented development at the DART Buckner Rail Station, which I previously mentioned, and which could serve as a catalyst to attract economic development and quality amenities. Buckner doesn’t need more auto-related businesses. Instead, we should focus on diverse developments that support the community’s growth.

For the Bruton and St. Augustine area, we need to ensure that any new developments, particularly on the land behind Fire Station 5, are high-quality. The city has already acquired this property and put it out for an RFP, which will help control and guide development in a way that benefits the community.

The Lake June and Highway 175 area is primed for redevelopment given the incredible skyline view, its proximity to downtown, and the ongoing transformative project that will connect the DART Lake June Rail Station to The LOOP project. I am proud that my advocacy efforts have resulted in securing nearly $40 million to replace the old bridge over Highway 175 with a new four-lane bridge that includes bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and will eventually connect our community to White Rock Lake. As a result, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, even posted a congratulatory tweet “to the people of Pleasant Grove.” By focusing on these efforts, we can ensure that these roads become hubs of economic opportunity and community enrichment.

My plan to attract more employers to Pleasant Grove is multifaceted. First, it’s important to continue highlighting Dallas Police Department data showing that District 5 is the second safest district in the city. Promoting this can help attract employers seeking a secure environment.

Second, I will prioritize infrastructure improvements to ensure the area is ready for development. High-quality streets, micro-mobility options, and recreational spaces are essential to creating a community that appeals to residents and employers.

Additionally, workforce training must align with business needs. The city should work closely with companies moving to Dallas and collaborate with DISD, Dallas College, Workforce Solutions, and other stakeholders to ensure residents are prepared for these jobs.

Further, I will continue expanding efforts to bridge the digital divide, which is crucial for accessing employment opportunities. I have long been a strong advocate for increased internet access. Prior to the pandemic, I successfully proposed a budget amendment to increase WIFI hotspots in neighborhoods lacking internet access, including District 5. During the pandemic, I led efforts to provide internet access through more hotspots, WIFI light poles, fiber optic, and free WIFI at library parking lots. I am proud that other cities have reached out to Dallas to learn more about our cross-departmental, data-driven approach to addressing the digital divide.

Lastly, I’ll keep advocating for transformative projects like the TOD at the DART Buckner Rail Station, which could significantly reduce the high concentration of auto-related uses and revitalize Buckner. Other initiatives, such as a large single-family housing development at Lake June and St. Augustine, the potential project behind Fire Station 5, and the proposed Dallas Center for Arts and Technology project near Elam and St. Augustine, will enhance economic development, create quality jobs, and completely transform District 5.

www.resendezforcitycouncil.com

https://www.facebook.com/ResendezForCityCouncil

Attorney and Dallas City Council Member