DALLAS – A proposed high-rise apartment complex in Far North Dallas has secured approval from the Dallas City Plan Commission, despite strong opposition from local residents and homeowners associations.
On Thursday, the commission unanimously voted in favor of a zoning change that would allow the construction of the Pepper Square Development, a 12-story, 1,000-unit luxury apartment complex at the intersection of Preston and Beltline Road. The decision follows months of heated debate and legal challenges.
Sean Jensen, a land use consultant with Masterplan representing the developers, addressed the commission, emphasizing the need for progress in the area.
“There’s been an impasse regarding the number of units and building height,” Jensen acknowledged. “Some residents are understandably concerned—this is their home. But it’s our home, too. Many of our neighbors are excited about the potential transformation of Pepper Square. We’re all ready to move beyond the status quo.”
However, not all residents share that enthusiasm. Nearly two dozen homeowners associations, represented by the Pepper Square Neighborhood Coalition, voiced their disapproval at Thursday’s meeting.
“The neighborhood is not opposed to redevelopment,” said Matt Bach, president of the coalition, which includes 23 local associations. “Our vision is for a vibrant, mixed-use development with restaurants, retail, and owner-occupied housing that addresses the missing middle.”
Bach emphasized that the coalition is open to compromise but criticized the developers for what he described as a rigid approach to negotiations.
“A compromise is achievable, but it requires both sides to come to the table,” he said. “So far, communication has been very much ‘take it or leave it.’”
Despite community concerns, City Plan Commissioner Melissa Kingston supported the development, arguing it aligns with the neighborhood’s evolving character.
“I consider this more of a mid-rise development,” Kingston said. “This site can support more housing. I drive by weekly, and I’m not convinced that traffic is the issue it’s being made out to be.”
The apartments are planned to be luxury units, a point of contention for residents like Bach, who argue for a more balanced development.
“We would support a project limited to four stories, with 300 to 400 units, including townhomes that could be owner-occupied,” Bach stated. “When people own their homes, they have a vested interest in the community.”
What’s Next?
Thursday’s decision comes after a series of delays, including a legal dispute over whether zoning signs were properly posted. The developers have since kept detailed records to avoid further complications.
The proposal will now advance to the Dallas City Council for a final vote scheduled on February 26.