Dallas Courtroom Battle Over Pepper Square High-Rise Development
DALLAS – A contentious legal battle is underway regarding the proposed Pepper Square high-rise apartment complex in Far North Dallas. Neighbors neighboring the development at Preston and Belt Line roads have initiated a lawsuit, seeking a temporary restraining order to halt progress until the court reaches a decision.
The Save Pepper Square Neighborhood Coalition argues that the city engaged in "spot zoning"—a practice that allows zoning that is inconsistent with the surrounding area. They claim the 11-story development infringes upon the guidelines outlined in Forward Dallas 2.0 and disregards the character of nearby single-family neighborhoods. Coalition attorney Austin Smith emphasized the potential negative impacts, stating, "The increase in density, automobiles, traffic, and noise could detract from the neighborhood and ultimately diminish its desirability."
Local homeowner Damien LeVeck echoed these concerns, highlighting issues of increased traffic and compromised emergency response times at one of Dallas’s busiest intersections. He noted that accommodating 55 residents per acre would render the area one of the most densely populated in the city, which he feels clashes with the existing neighborhood character. This backlash has even led to councilwoman Janie Schultz opting not to seek reelection.
On the other hand, the attorney representing Pepper Square countered that the development process has been in motion since September 2022 and was informed by comprehensive city evaluations. He warned that further delays could result in significant financial losses for his clients, estimating costs between $280,000 and $290,000 per week.
Judge Martin Hoffman is presiding over the case and has requested both parties to submit briefs on relevant spot zoning laws. A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday at 9 a.m. as tensions continue to rise over this controversial project.
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