Seven downtown Dallas businesses or entities have received grants from nonprofit Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI), for projects that enhance the appearance, safety, and functional quality of public spaces in downtown.

DDI budgets funding every year to support the Downtown Matching Grant Program. Projects that meet the requirements can receive a matching grant from DDI in an amount up to $25,000.

This year, the grants total more than $150,000, and have been awarded to the following organizations:

AT&T Performing Arts Center: $25,000 for lighting improvements at Sammons Park.
This investment will enhance visitor safety and improve visibility for after-hours events, benefiting the Performing Arts Center and the broader Arts District throughout the year.

City Futsal: $25,000, to install shade structures and seating areas at its fields in the Dallas Farmers Market.
The addition of these shade structures will provide enhanced amenities for both patrons of the facility and nearby Farmers Market neighborhood residents, creating a more enjoyable experience for all.

Headington Companies: $17,200 to revitalize the Stone Street Pedestrian Plaza, next to The Eye sculpture.
This project encompasses various improvements, including landscape enhancements, banners, pet relief areas, and the installation of new shade structures. The revitalization of the plaza will create a more welcoming and vibrant space.

Radiance Plaza at 1301 Young St.: $25,000 to renovate the exterior entry and plaza area, with a particular focus on enhancing the pedestrian experience.
These improvements will not only upgrade the surrounding area but also orient additional activated spaces toward the AT&T Discovery District, creating a more dynamic and engaging environment

The Omni Hotel: $22,855 for the installation of tree lighting along the Lamar and Young streetscape.
This initiative aims to improve safety within these corridors while adding visually appealing elements to a key location in Downtown Dallas.

Parks for Downtown Dallas: $24,000 to install redesigned porch swings at West End Square.
Building upon the success and popularity of the original swings, the new swings have been engineered to be more durable and functional, providing an enhanced experience for park patrons

Señor Bean Restaurant: $12,500 grant to install a parklet with additional patio seating, enhancing their street presence on Olive Street near San Jacinto Street.
This project not only benefits the business but also contributes to significant visual improvements along the corridor, creating a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

The annual selection process is overseen by DDI’s Public Space & Improvements Committee, chaired by DDI Board of Directors member Steve Hulsey, AIA, RID, NCARB, President and Principal at Downtown-based Corgan.

“By investing in the improvement of public spaces, these organizations and businesses are contributing to the vibrancy and livability of our city,” Hulsey says in a statement. “It is through such collaborative efforts that we can create spaces that not only enrich the urban experience but also foster a sense of community pride."

DDI President & CEO Jennifer Scripps says, "the investments in lighting improvements, shade structures, revitalization projects, porch swings, parklets, and more will help create inviting and dynamic spaces that promote safety and economic vitality."