Dallas Plan Commission rejects limits on multiplex constructions, sparks debate among local residents

Cruz Arroyo July 15, 2024

The Plan Commission of Dallas has voted against a plan to limit multiplex constructions in areas already designated for single-family detached homes — Credit: Unsplash

Dallas, Texas – The Plan Commission of Dallas has voted against a plan to limit multiplex constructions in areas already designated for single-family detached homes, therefore igniting heated debates within the city. After months of intense discussion, the decision was made by Friday’s 10-4 vote.

Residents have divided viewpoints about the topic, which attracts hundreds to city meetings to express their thoughts. Proponents of the plan contended that allowing multiplexes—such as ten-unit buildings and duplexes—in particular neighborhoods would hasten gentrification, displacing long-time inhabitants and turning affordable houses into upscale complexes.

“The problem for me is it is a fast track for gentrification,” one Dallas resident said during Friday’s meeting as reported by FOX4. “An attempt to bulldoze the only affordable housing left.”

The core of the argument is the city’s Forward Dallas comprehensive plan’s goal for development reflected in its entirety. Advocates of multiplexes contend that future viability of the city depends on higher housing density. They contend that the next generation may find themselves priced out of living inside city borders without a change toward more varied housing options.

“In the next 10-20 years, if we do not open the door to density, our children and grandchildren will be living outside the city of Dallas,” said Dallas City Plan Commissioner Tabitha Wheeler-Reagan.

Opponents, meanwhile, are worried that this action will cause neighborhoods to lose its charm and make less accessible to middle-class families. Some residents, like Melanie Vanlandingham, have expressed their concerns over the drastic changes this could bring.

“This document says a ‘10-plex’ can be built next to any of our homes. Any. A 10-plex!” said Dallas resident Melanie Vanlandingham.

In an effort to reach a compromise, City Plan Commissioner Melissa Kingston backed a proposal allowing multiplexes as a secondary choice, subject to commission approval, but preserving single-family detached homes as the main use in these areas.

“It’s become clear over last 6 months that the community is divided,” she said. “That is what the single-family people are asking for: some comfort. We are not going to mow down their neighborhoods.”

Though most of the commission—including Vice Chair Brent Rubin—concluded that multiplexes do not fundamentally damage single-family zones despite such suggestions for compromise. Rubin claims that single-family homes are not harmed by the duplexes and vice versa.

The results of the voting show that the Forward Dallas proposal will support the inclusion of multiplexes in every neighborhood, therefore indicating a change towards higher housing density. The Dallas City Council will ultimately make the choice, though; this controversial topic is scheduled to be addressed later in the year, therefore allowing more public participation and discussion.