Overview:
The City of Dallas introduced the West Oak Cliff Area Plan in 2020, which has led to new zoning changes in the Hampton & Clarendon corridor, risking further displacement of existing residents and small businesses. La Alianza, a grassroots campaign led by small business owners and residents, is fighting back against these changes, which they believe will drive land values even higher and potentially displace the very families and businesses that built Oak Cliff. The next City Plan Commission hearing is scheduled for April 24.
By Jennifer Rangel, RAYO Planning
In 2020, the City of Dallas introduced a plan for our neighborhoods under the name of the West Oak Cliff Area Plan (WOCAP). They called it a roadmap for growth and a way to ensure that existing residents will be able to remain in the neighborhood.
Fast forward to today—WOCAP has opened the door to new zoning changes along the Hampton & Clarendon corridor, creating a risk of further displacement by now allowing residential developments, such as townhomes, in an area where they were historically not permitted.
Related: The Fight for West Oak Cliff: Community Activism, Urban Planning, and the Role of RAYO Planning
Our community is already doing everything it can to survive in this economy. These changes are irresponsible. They risk driving land values even higher and potentially displacing the very families and small businesses that built Oak Cliff.
We are fighting back.
La Alianza is a grassroots campaign led by small business owners, residents, and advocates who believe that Oak Cliff is not for sale. Together, we’ve canvassed hundreds of doors, hosted carne asadas to educate neighbors, notarized affidavits for property owners, and helped residents prepare to speak out at public hearings.
The next City Plan Commission hearing is this Thursday April 24, and we need your help to turn up the pressure.
Jennifer Rangel is the Executive Director of RAYO Planning. RAYO Planning helps communities create more equitable places by fighting for environmental, housing, and economic justice. Your donation will help us print materials, train more volunteers, and bring our community to City Hall.