DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Dallas’ historic West End District, a once popular entertainment area, is hoping that a recent increase in security coupled with an influx of new businesses will continue the trend of economic growth.
The West End Association’s Stephen Luik said there’s a perception that the area is plagued by crime but statistics point to the opposite.
“Crime stats are actually going down quarter over quarter. The district is patrolled by DART, DPD and Downtown Safety Patrol. So, we just wanted to add an additional layer of security to negate that initial perception,” he said.
Two additional Dallas Police Officers will patrol the area which has recently seen an uptick in technological companies opening up offices there.
“The district is really going towards becoming the city’s the innovation district. Companies like Snapchat and Uber have offices there,” he said.
The economic boom is not just geared towards businesses. The Dallas Holocaust Museum moved into the area last year which hosted more than 85,000 visitors.
Luik said the recent trend shows that the district can attract a wide-range of businesses, arts and culture and nightlife.
“You haven’t seen this level of construction in the West End in…who knows…a hundred years. You have that going on right now. You have a lot of new retail going on down there. You also have office buildings with new owners that are really investing in their properties. So, there’s a lot going on down there,” he said.
In the last two years, the district has seen more than $250 million in investment, redevelopment and rising property values.
Luik said the association is hoping to accomplish its goals without losing a sense of Dallas history.
“We always try to embrace the history of the district. With all the development and initiatives that the West End Dallas Association takes, we try to keep that in the back of our minds,” he said.
The area was once considered a destination for locals and tourists. It’s a reputation Luik said he’s confident will be restored.
“If your not looking to go to Uptown and you want somewhere to go, the West End is a vibrant and thriving little district. I think people will be impressed if they go down there for some of the museums, restaurants or bars. The district is open and we welcome you to come visit,” he said.
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