June 2023, DW was on the scene for the groundbreaking of Jeffries-Meyers development project in South Dallas. This ambitious project aimed to provide high-quality, affordable housing options to families and individuals who might otherwise be priced out of the market. Scottie Smith II, who is deeply committed to community development, worked tirelessly to ensure that these homes will not only be affordable but also sustainable and energy-efficient. And let’s be clear on how they got this entire project started. It wasn’t just some open land that was ready to purchase and ready to build. Anyone who actually knows South Dallas, understands the myriad of “politics” that affect the area, especially when it comes to housing. But the team behind Scottie Smith II took on the challenge with ferocity.
Fast forward 14 months from the ground breaking in June 2023, as you drive over what used to be a massive tent city, is now thriving with development that comprises of 17 lots. These once vacant lots are now featuring homes with modern amenities and layouts to accommodate various family sizes. All are priced between $200s and the mid $300s.
On Thursday, August 1st, the team from Jefferies-Meyers hosted a tour for their partners, showing the progress of this multi-million dollar development.
Dreams become reality when there’s capital behind it, and Origin Bank answered the call for Jefferies-Meyers as a lending partner. Leading the charge from Origin is VP and Commercial Relationship Banker, Lisa Bowman. Although Lisa is a native of Dallas, she lived and worked in California long enough to see it become unaffordable for the average family to obtain a home. It then became her mission to make a change, and it was fortuitous this dream manifested in her hometown of Dallas.
Through my role, I have the opportunity to be a part of the project and connect with developers like Scottie Smith, II who do great work constructing quality, budget-friendly homes in the low-and-moderate income areas. – Lisa Bowman, Vice President Origin Bank
Additionally, the City of Dallas Housing Department also saw the positive impact of this project and joined Scottie as a partner. Last week’s tour not only showcased the progress but also the potential. With so many vacant lots in the Southern sector of Dallas along with many more families in those areas that are in need of housing, the posibilites are limitless.
In addition to providing much-needed housing and financial freedom, Scottie is excited to see the positive impact this development will have on the lives of many South Dallas residents. Not just because it’s the right thing to do, but mainly to give the community he loves an opportunity to control the narrative about South Dallas. Jeffries-Meyers gave us the blueprint… we just have to use it.
