Major funding secured to transform Dallas into a more connected and vibrant cultural hub

Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Cultural Trail is moving forward with significant support, having recently secured a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Grant Program. This funding will be utilized for community engagement, design, and engineering, ensuring the project becomes shovel-ready. The RCP Grant Program aims to reconnect communities that were previously divided by transportation infrastructure, with over $544 million awarded to 81 projects nationwide.
A Vision for Connection and Culture
Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s progress, highlighting the city’s commitment to expanding parks and trails. “Expanding Dallas’ parks and trails is one of my top priorities, and I am thrilled to see the Dallas Cultural Trail move forward,” he stated. “Through this trail, Dallas will strengthen the bonds between our communities, expand access to arts and culture, and make Dallas an even more vibrant and connected city.”
The success of this grant application was the result of collaboration between various city stakeholders and organizations. Partners in the effort include the City of Dallas, Deep Ellum Foundation, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Dallas Arts District, Fair Park First, Visit Dallas, Friends of Santa Fe Trail, and Forest Forward. The project was made possible by leveraging funds from the City of Dallas’ 2024 Bond Program and other planned city resources.
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert emphasized the trail’s importance in fostering inclusivity and accessibility. “The Dallas Cultural Trail represents our commitment to building bridges in our community,” she said. “This trail will help us ensure that all residents and visitors have opportunities to experience arts and culture throughout the city as outlined in our Dallas Cultural Plan. Together we are creating pathways to a more connected and sustainable future for all.”
Enhancing Transportation and Cultural Experiences
The Dallas Cultural Trail project aligns with several ongoing initiatives led by city and regional transportation agencies, including the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), and TxDOT. Some of these projects include the CBD Fair Park Links project, Dallas Bike Plan, the I-345 and I-30 burial plans, and the DART Fantastic Places project. The goal is to enhance multi-modal access and connectivity between key cultural and recreational destinations.
Stephanie Keller Hudiburg, Executive Director of the Deep Ellum Foundation, expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort behind the trail. “The Deep Ellum Foundation is grateful to have applied on behalf of our incredible coalition behind this effort to build a trail in Dallas putting the richness of our distinct neighborhoods’ art, culture and history at the fingertips of all who travel it,” she said. “We are so thankful to the City of Dallas, TXDOT and USDOT for their investment, leadership and support of this community-led initiative.”
Dallas’ Expansive Trail Network
Dallas is home to an extensive trail system, with 180 miles of urban hike and bike trails spread across the city. These trails serve as critical connections between neighborhoods, offering alternative transportation options and recreational opportunities. The city offers various types of trails, including linear trails, nature trails, loop trails, neighborhood trails, and off-road bicycle trails.
What to Expect from the Dallas Cultural Trail
The Dallas Cultural Trail aims to provide an accessible public path that links the Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, and South Dallas. This trail will showcase the city’s diverse history, architecture, and artistic legacy through both physical pathways and digital experiences. The initiative is expected to boost economic development, promote cultural tourism, and offer enhanced connectivity options for residents and visitors alike.
With a focus on community engagement and inclusivity, the trail will serve as a symbol of unity, reflecting Dallas’ rich cultural heritage while ensuring accessibility for all. The future of the Dallas Cultural Trail looks promising, with the support and enthusiasm of local leadership and community stakeholders driving its development forward.