Dallas Opens Call for Concepts to Convert 40 Acres of Parking Lots into Year-Round Attractions

Dallas officials will open a public call for concepts next week to redevelop approximately 40 acres of parking lots at Fair Park. The initiative targets lots 10, 11, and 12, which currently serve as temporary parking for major events but sit empty for much of the year. The city is inviting proposals for restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues to transform the space into a destination that draws visitors beyond the State Fair of Texas.

The push for new development follows Dallas's assumption of day-to-day operations at the historic 277-acre property last year. Since taking over, city staff have introduced additional programming, such as a farmers market, to increase activity. However, John Jenkins, the director of Dallas Park and Recreation, stated that these measures are insufficient. He noted that the city needs consistent attractions to sustain visitor interest throughout the calendar.

"Why not take this empty space and activate it?" Jenkins said. He emphasized the need for activities that operate consistently, adding, "What we want out here is consistent activities." Jenkins pointed out that the current programming does not yet achieve the goal of bringing people to the park 365 days a year.

The request for ideas coincides with the start of construction on a long-awaited community park at Fair Park. Groundbreaking for the new park is expected in December 2026, with construction scheduled to continue throughout 2027. The new park is designed to reconnect Fair Park with surrounding southern Dallas neighborhoods. City officials view the park as a starting point for further development in the area.

No specific development plans have been announced for the 40-acre parking area. The city is seeking broad concepts that could replace the asphalt with spaces for recreation, entertainment, and community activity. Jenkins believes that combining the new community park with proposed redevelopment of the parking lots will establish a more active future for the property.

"I need something in this space that's going to bring people out, 365 days a year," Jenkins said. He added that transforming the underused parking areas aligns with his vision for the site, stating, "To me, that's what Fair Park should be about."

For now, the city is gathering input from the community to determine how to utilize the vacant lots. The process aims to identify projects that can sustain traffic and economic activity at Fair Park during months when major events are not taking place.