Dallas Secures First H‑E B After 14‑1 Council Vote

Dallas has officially secured its first H‑E B supermarket after a contentious city council vote, a milestone that could reshape the city’s retail landscape.

Background

H‑E B, a Texas‑based grocery chain, has long been a staple in the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex. Though the brand has operated numerous stores in the region, this is the first location to be built in Dallas city limits. The proposed 127,000‑square‑foot store, accompanied by a parking garage, will occupy 10 acres southeast of the LBJ Freeway and Hillcrest Road. Local residents and neighborhood groups have organized for months to voice concerns about the impact of such a large development.

The Council Decision

During a Wednesday city council meeting, the re‑zoning request for the site was approved with a 14‑1 vote. The lone dissenting vote came from a councilmember who expressed uncertainty about the project’s fit for the area. The approval clears the final hurdle for H‑E B to begin construction, signaling the city’s willingness to expand its retail options.

Community Reactions

The meeting drew a mix of support and opposition. One speaker remarked, “Your approval, I think, helps to make Dallas a better city,” while another countered, “It just doesn’t fit.” A third attendee added, “I look forward to H‑E B being in Dallas but not at this site.” These comments illustrate the divided sentiment among residents.

Voices from the Hillcrest Preservation Coalition

Beryl George of the Hillcrest Preservation Coalition said, “We really were hoping it would get sent back to the city plan commission and worked toward as a planned development.” She continued, “Something this size really needs more thoughtful consideration.” George’s remarks highlight the coalition’s preference for a more measured approach to large‑scale projects.

Councilmember Perspectives

District 7 Councilmember Adam Bazaldua voiced a broader concern: “I do not want to continue to perpetuate a cycle of losing opportunities to the suburbs of DFW.” His statement reflects a desire to keep development within city limits rather than pushing it outward.

Southern Dallas Advocates

District 3 Councilmember Zarin Gracey expressed appreciation for H‑E B’s contributions, saying, “I appreciate all the good that H‑E B provides to my area.” He added, “The struggle for me makes it feel like you see southern Dallas as a charity case versus capable consumers.” Gracey’s comments underscore the tension between perceived consumer capability and community support.

H‑E B’s Commitment

In a statement released after the vote, H‑E B wrote, “We appreciate the thoughtful consideration from city officials, staff, and community members throughout this process. We are committed to serving Texans and look forward to bringing our first H‑E B store to the city of Dallas.” The company also highlighted its plans to add turn lanes and make other upgrades to ease congestion around the new site.

Economic Impact

Benjamin Scott, Group Vice President of Real Estate and Shopping Center Development for H‑E B, said the new store will bring 800 new jobs and an estimated $24 million in tax revenue to Dallas over the next five years. These figures suggest a significant economic boost for the city’s workforce and public finances.

Addressing Congestion Concerns

A primary concern raised by neighbors was congestion in an already high‑traffic area. H‑E B’s proposed turn lanes and other infrastructure improvements aim to mitigate these worries, though some residents remain skeptical about the adequacy of the solutions.

Looking Ahead

The approval marks a pivotal moment for Dallas, but it also raises questions about future development patterns and community engagement. Stakeholders will need to monitor how the new store’s operations affect traffic, local businesses, and neighborhood character.

Key Takeaways

• Dallas council passed the H‑E B re‑zoning request 14‑1, clearing the way for the city’s first store.
• The 127,000‑sq‑ft supermarket will occupy 10 acres southeast of the LBJ Freeway and Hillcrest Road.
• H‑E B anticipates 800 jobs and $24 million in tax revenue over five years, while planning turn lanes to address congestion.

The decision to bring H‑E B into Dallas reflects both the city’s ambition to diversify retail options and the ongoing debate over how large developments should shape the urban landscape.