December 3, 2020: The City of Dallas, Dallas PD, and DART PD continue to collaborate with Downtown business partners to activate an enhanced enforcement initiative to provide increased and more visible patrols, enforce the ongoing juvenile curfew, and provide additional manpower to curtail speeding and street racing in Downtown and surrounding entertainment districts.
The enforcement initiative launched by the City of Dallas, Dallas PD, and DART PD, and with support from the Downtown business community, continues to make progress and will be in effect through the end of the year.
DPD began enforcing the juvenile curfew ordinance Labor Day weekend, which covers Deep Ellum, West End, Farmers Market, Uptown, Victory Park, and the Central Business District. The ordinance applies to juveniles under the age of 17 who are in a public place in the curfew area from 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday and from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Sunday.
Downtown Dallas, Inc. and DPD continue the collaborative work to maintain the efforts of this initiative through open lines of communication and constant reassessment of the Downtown area. We have seen progress made towards our shared goals of keeping Downtown a safe place for all.
DPD has furthered their efforts in Downtown Dallas with:
Officers patrolling utilizing the overhead cruise lights for visibility
Increased high-visibility patrols by uniformed officers
Deployment of plain clothes officers
Downtown Dallas, Inc. continues to observe, listen, and respond to the needs and concerns of Downtown. The below highlights are enhancements to DDI services that have already been implemented and will continue to keep Downtown safe:
Daily hours for DDI Security are from 6:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. DDI is providing additional security coverage at Main Street Garden, Belo Garden, and Pegasus Plaza from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at each location.
Dedicated off-duty DPD officer at Main Street Garden daily (four-hour shifts). As a reminder, DDI funds off-duty DPD officers seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
City of Dallas Park Department has increased their deployment of Park Rangers to provide additional patrols throughout Downtown parks.
DDI has added 18 new full-time security professionals this year.
We appreciate our continued partnership with DPD. And remember, if you see something, say something! You can report non-emergency incidents through the See Say Now app, by texting a report to 972.440.1995, or by calling the dispatch number for DDI Security and Clean Team at 214.741.1151. Please dial 911 in the event of an emergency.
Have you felt cooped up for the last few months and are now busting to discover your city again? That need to connect with culture and the arts has you wondering what to do. It’s been a while and things are opening up again in Downtown Dallas. Whatever suits your cultural taste, there is something here for you.
Let’s start with the Arts…
The Arts District is a hub of culture in the heart of Downtown Dallas. Visitors can delight their senses with one or more of the many options available to them in this mecca of the arts.
The Dallas Museum of Arts, or DMA, welcomes guests back for its beautiful exhibits and features that are guaranteed to pique your artistic side, stretch your imagination, and soothe your spirit. If you have visited the DMA before, you know what we are talking about. If you haven’t made that trip yet, the time is now to see what all the fuss is about. Check for updated hours and visitor requirements.
Like the DMA, the Nasher Sculpture Center is a feast for the eyes through art and sculpture. On the grounds of the Nasher, you will find an incredible collection of contemporary and modern sculpture throughout. Five different pavilions make up the main building to house some breathtaking art, while the garden outside is home to some beauty of its own with sculptures “planted” for all to view. Pay a visit for yourself and make it a stop while exploring Downtown Dallas.
If music is your muse, then the Winspear Opera House and the Meyerson Symphony Center may call to your soul. The Winspear Opera House, as well as Strauss Square, are included in the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and features a variety of music and dance performances for the public in the coming weeks and months. Strauss Square will offer outdoor performances and Winspear Opera House has a few events planned in the coming months with limited capacity for your entertainment. Please plan ahead for your visit to remain in accordance with current requirements for admission to events.
The Meyerson Symphony Center is featuring many virtual performances during this time of altered arrangements. However, there are some programs that will be performed with no intermission, and be composed of smaller, socially-distanced orchestral ensembles. These programs will allow an audience of only 50-75 guests. Again, make your plans according to the updated guidelines of the facility.
Let’s brush up on some history, shall we…
The Crow Collection of Asian Art is a beautiful oasis of contemporary and ancient pieces spanning the vast history and locales of a rich Asian culture. Nestled in the Trammell Crow Center, visitors will find art and history at every turn that will amaze and inform each and every guest. Admission is free, but plan ahead for your visit for current guidelines for patrons.
It’s an easily recognizable structure overlooking Woodall Rodgers Freeway. That’s right, it’s the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Again ready for visitors, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is an interactive experience of sights and sounds for all who enter. Exhibits are ever changing to meet the interest of all of its guests, so as you make your plans, find out what exhibits are being featured. As always, check their website for updated information on guest requirements and hours of operation.
For the true history buff, the Sixth Floor Museum is the spot to be. One of the most visited spots in Dallas, this is the home to everything JFK in regard to that fateful November day in 1963. Tour, learn, and explore this informative museum and make your own decisions as to how things happened that day. Read the guidelines for the reopened Sixth Floor Museum before making your visit.
Another significant museum that is open to the public again is the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum in the West End. Discover each wing of the museum as it presents the history of events, from the Holocaust to Human Rights to the Pivot to America. An educational experience for both history enthusiasts and those who just want to learn more about the past through the scope of human rights, and the struggle to defend those affected and recognize the efforts to rise from a difficult past. Check the guidelines of the museum for hours of operation and other requirements before your visit.
On the Lighter Side of Downtown Dallas…
Now that you’ve discovered art and history, it may be time for a little fun when it comes to culture in Downtown Dallas. They say the city can be a jungle and they may be right. In the heart of Downtown lies the Dallas World Aquarium awaiting your exploration and adventure into an amazing world filled with creatures from the animal kingdom and more. Fun for the entire family, the Dallas World Aquarium offers education and amazement as you are surrounded by creatures from across the globe. It’s so much more than just an aquarium; it’s a treasure of animals from amphibians, reptiles, and mammals from places like Borneo to South Africa, and beyond. Get all the info you need as you plan your journey, to make the most of this extraordinary expedition.
Don’t forget to get a bird’s eye view of this amazing city by making your way to historic Reunion Tower and visiting the GeO-Deck. From high above the Emerald City, 470 feet to be exact, you can experience a breathtaking view of Dallas and its surrounding areas from any spot on the 360-degree observation deck. Visit day or night for a different vibe of your skyline. Ask about a romantic evening experienced at new heights with the Love is in the Air package. From field trips to family adventures, or special occasions, or just to be a tourist in your own town, discover Dallas from a new perspective. Plan your visit in advance and learn the guidelines and updated hours of operation.
Visit Dallas’ park like no other as you explore Downtown. Klyde Warren Park at the northern edge of Downtown is an oasis of fun and relaxation with a view of Downtown all its own. With something for every member of the family, including the furry ones, Klyde Warren Park is 5.2 acres of adventure and solace. Kids will love the Children’s Park and your canine fur babies can frolic in the My Best Friend’s Park. There is always something to do in the park, from yoga classes to movie nights to exercise, it’s all here. You can make a day of it too, as food trucks are lined up to offer some of the best tastes Dallas has to offer within footsteps. Plan your visit for details on safety updates, programs, parking, and other info you may need before you arrive, and then enjoy!
Now, mark your calendars and go!
As more and more places begin to reopen and allow visitors to enjoy and explore Downtown Dallas, always remember to prepare for your visit by checking the website of the facility or location you plan to attend. A quick rule of thumb is that almost every place is under some version of the current guidelines of Timed Reservations Only – Masks Required – Limited Hours of Operation. Keep those in mind, then get out there and have some fun rediscovering your city. Be a tourist again and enjoy Downtown Dallas!
For more information on arts and culture events and places to visit, check out the Dallas Arts District website.
It’s that time of year again, and the sights and sounds of the holidays aren’t forgotten in Downtown Dallas. Dallas is known for its cityscape, skyline, and beautiful lights anyway, and the holidays crank it up a notch. There may be a giant eyeball Downtown, but your eyes may feel that big with the lights you will experience during the holidays.
Things are getting started soon as Deck the Plaza, a Dallas holiday tradition, will return for 2020 with a bit of a twist. Visitors and holiday light connoisseurs are invited to join in a contactless, holiday drive-thru experience with a celebration of lights at City Hall Plaza. The Deck the Plaza light extravaganza goes from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21st.
The parade of vehicles will begin at City Hall Plaza on Marilla Street. Drivers will make their way through City Hall Plaza to experience holiday entertainment and a festival of lights, leading up to the 35-foot holiday tree. This will surely be a sight to behold. To add to the experience, Classical 101.1 WRR-FM will again participate in the celebration for 2020. Drivers can tune in to the radio station during the drive-thru to enjoy some festive holiday music and messages of good tidings from a few Dallas dignitaries. Plan ahead for your visit for all details and requirements for the event, so you can enjoy it safely.
While Downtown, you may notice a tree made out of car parts. That’s right, car body parts! The Neiman Marcus Car Tree was commissioned in 2003 and was displayed in the Neiman Marcus Flagship store. Since then, it moved in 2012 to its current home in Pegasus Plaza. It’s a sight to be seen with its construction from car trunks, tail fins, taillights, and more taken from thirteen classic cars. The parts were taken from cars made between 1949 and 1962. Some of the lights are also from a vintage school bus. This display is a photo op must for car enthusiasts and holiday light fans alike.
Another favorite from the Neiman Marcus Legacy Holiday Collection is the collection of Butterflies at Belo Garden. The beautiful metal sculpture of eight LED-lit butterflies is on display at Belo Garden through December 31st. The highest butterfly’s pinnacle ranges about 18′-20′ above the ground. The flagship Downtown Neiman Marcus store was the former home of these picturesque butterflies from 2005 – 2010.
Many other fantastic sights await you during the holidays in festive Downtown. Visit Main Street Garden to witness their gorgeous holiday tree, featuring 3,000 bulbs, 10,000 mini lights, and 450 ornaments…quite a display! Can you count them all? Sip on a hot cocoa and give it a try!
Don’t forget the many hotels and plazas who also have amazing trees and lights on their premises, such as The National shown in the photo above! The Adolphus Hotel displays a giant holiday in their lobby and the Statler Hotel is home to a beautiful tree as well.
As you explore Downtown, make sure you cruise by AT&T Discovery District to see their tree and lights. Klyde Warren Park always gets into the holiday spirit with their own towering tree to make Dallas proud. Not to mention, the Omni Dallas Hotel and Reunion Tower are both always lit for every occasion and the holidays are no exception.
Whether you’re walking around or just taking a drive through the Downtown streets, enjoy every visual treat Dallas has to offer. Wind your way all over the Downtown area and make your own yuletide discoveries and find your favorites. Dallas is such a beautiful city lit up at night most of the year anyway, but the holidays become a wonderland during this sparkly season. And be sure to share and tag your photos of these beautiful lights with #MYDTD. Happy Holidays!
Goldstein to Lead All Internal and External Communications and Government Relations
DALLAS (Nov. 10, 2020) – Today, Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) named Scott Goldstein its Chief of Communications & Policy, effective Nov. 30, 2020. He will report directly to DDI’s President & CEO, Kourtny Garrett.
In this newly created executive position, Goldstein will be responsible for advancing the voice and position of the organization, with a particular focus on corporate, business-to-business, economic development, and government relations. He will lead all external and internal communications efforts, as well as manage all local, state, and national policy matters that relate to Downtown Dallas.
“As the advocate, champion, and steward for Downtown, it is more important than ever before that DDI maintains its strength and fundamental support of the city’s core – it is imperative to the social and economic health of all of Dallas,” said Garrett. “Scott has been ingrained in our community for the last 15 years, and his working knowledge and understanding of the city are unmatched – he will be a tremendous champion for the city as we continue to position Downtown for future success.”
Goldstein brings more than a decade of high-level civic and communications experience to DDI. Most recently, he was senior vice president of communications, marketing, and events for the Dallas Regional Chamber. Prior to that, he was a top aide to former Mayor Mike Rawlings and served as Chief of Policy and Communications on his staff. Goldstein was also the digital content editor for Baylor Scott & White Health. He began his career in 2006 as a reporter for The Dallas Morning News, where he wrote about southern Dallas, criminal justice and Dallas City Hall over eight years.
“Scott is a great salesman for Dallas,” Rawlings said. “DDI is fortunate to have him on the team because he will paint a great picture for everyone, citizens and investors, about the opportunity in Downtown Dallas. He also knows how to face complex challenges and bring people together to solve them for the good of our city.”
Goldstein is a Maryland native and 2005 graduate of the University of Maryland. He resides in the Lake Highlands area of Dallas with his wife and two daughters.
Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization that serves as the primary advocate, champion, and steward for Downtown. Since our founding in 1958, DDI has been the only organization solely dedicated to the center of our city, with a mission of stimulating a vibrant and sustainable environment, improving infrastructure, enhancing economic competitiveness, creating a culturally inclusive urban center, and fostering innovation in every aspect of the urban experience. DDI is funded through two primary resources. One is the Downtown Improvement District (DID), an assessment on properties within “the freeway loop*” through a property owner and City of Dallas approved public improvement district. The second is membership, which supplements core improvement district funds and enables the organization to engage more deeply in advocacy, economic development, and marketing initiatives. Members represent the commercial and multi-family property owners, major corporations, and many small and emerging businesses that are passionately driving the exponential growth within the city center of Dallas. DDI is also affiliated with the Downtown Dallas, Inc. Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that engages in charitable projects which further the DDI mission, with particular focus on “kids and parks.”
One of the fastest growing Burger franchises in the United States, BurgerIM offers a variety of delicious, gourmet hamburger options & much more.
Ellen’s
At Ellen’s, brunch is all we do. We know that brunch is no longer just for the weekend. It’s everyone’s favorite meal, so why not celebrate it every day? In fact, any time of day is a good time for brunch, so we serve it day and night.
We started Ellen’s in 2012 with one simple idea: build a restaurant that we would want to go to. That means traditional, made-from-scratch Southern recipes, using only the freshest meats and vegetables, and giving service with true Southern hospitality. That also means serving brunch all the time.
Because remember, no matter what time it is where you are, IT’S BRUNCH O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE!
Y.O Ranch Steakhouse
Whether dining or simply relaxing over a cocktail with friends, the Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse offers a warm, inviting atmosphere. With its 100-year old brick arches, iron accents and candlelit tables, the main dining room delivers an authentic steakhouse dining experience that is relaxing with a touch of elegance. The Y.O. bar is the perfect spot for enjoying a drink before or after dinner or grabbing a quick bite. The rich, deep wood and historic black and white photos create a comfortable ambiance to enjoy the fully-stocked bar.
Dining on their beautiful patio under Texas Live Oaks and amidst overflowing flower baskets is an excellent option for a casual lunch or dinner at a Dallas steakhouse, all the while taking in the energetic atmosphere of Market street.
3 Eleven Kitchen and Cocktails
3Eleven Kitchen & Cocktails is a modern American eatery that embodies the revival of the West End Historic District located on the corner of Market and Ross. Inspired by local restaurateur Jay Khan, the restaurant is guided by one simple philosophy, “Every ingredient has a purpose.” Serving farm-to-table fare and scratch cocktails with a vintage twist, 3Eleven is open daily for lunch and dinner. The space is also complete with private dining capabilities for special occasions and events.
Dallas World Aquarium
At the Dallas World Aquarium you’ll discover the hidden worlds of the sea and all the beauty they have to offer. There’s even more to see when you visit any one of our exhibits from the Cloud Forest Trek all the way to South Africa and Borneo. You’ll always find wonderful things at the Dallas World Aquarium! Located close to the DART station and within walking distance of multiple hotels and restaurants in the heart of the West End, it’s easy to make a day of your exotic adventure.
The Dallas World Aquarium has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1997 and a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) since 2000.
RJ’s Mexican Cuisine
RJ Mexican Cuisine’s imaginative traditional dishes, blending Mexico-Texas flavors with Mexican technique, is at the forefront of a new wave of the Mexican cuisine that’s now become entrenched in Dallas’ culinary scene. Each dish has a touch of unexpected flavor, which is typical of this culinary Master of Mexican Cuisine who believes that “each bite should involve all of our senses and tastes.”
Though RJ Mexican Cuisine may be the father of Dallas’ Eatery scene, there are plenty following in their footsteps. RJ Mexican Cuisine has been listed as one of the city’s best new restaurants several times over. This cozy and unpretentious eatery is known for serving up dishes with a twist – a Mexican twist in this case. Tapas of spiced meat, cheeses, and seafood are served up alongside a legendary late-night Chef’s platter. The cocktails are also among the best in Dallas.
Dallas Holocaust & Human Rights Museum
The Dallas Holocaust & Human Rights Museum tells a uniquely human story.
Discover the history of the Holocaust in a deeply personal way. Listen to forgotten voices share their harrowing experiences and imagine a day in their shoes. Follow the emergence of human rights after the war and beyond into the development of civil rights in America. The Dallas Holocaust & Human Rights Museum is committed to shedding light into our darkest corners and uplifting those who stand up for others.
The building boasts the newest renovation in The West End. Located on Houston street, it’s the perfect place to begin your day before making your way through the neighborhood to discover local restaurants and additional museums and entertainment.
To plan your next visit to the Dallas West End visit https://dallaswestend.org/ today. Don’t see your favorite West End destination here? Email us at info@downtowndallas.com and check out all Downtown Dallas has to offer here.
Downtown Dallas, Inc.’s annual insert all about Downtown Dallas featured inside the Dallas Business Journal can be viewed in its entirety by clicking here. Enjoy!
Birthday extravaganzas and Wednesday wine gossips haven’t felt the same since Covid-19 moved all of our lives online. But now, with more Dallas restaurants, spas, and shopping centers opening their doors, getting back to boozy brunches with the girls is becoming a little bit easier. This one’s for the ladies! Grab your masks and your crossbody clutches as you head to Downtown Dallas for a safe, memorable, and fun girls’ staycation.
Keep Fit
If bonding through working out is more your style try heading to Cowboy’s Fit for pilates, biking, and even cardio dance parties.
If yoga is more your style, you can head to V12 and practice regaining your center.
Both centers have adopted new guidelines to cater to COVID-19 restrictions so that you and your friends can enjoy a safe experience.
Sunday Funday
Everyone loves a good Sunday brunch and shop. Check out the Dallas Farmers Market where you can enjoy an open indoor and outdoor layout. The Dallas Farmers market not only has plenty of good eats and tons of outdoor space for dining but amazing small and local businesses to support. We actually did a whole blog on it! Head here to find out all there is to enjoy at the Dallas Farmers Market.
Museum Musings
If you and your gals are an intellectual bunch, or simply appreciate artistic endeavors, Downtown Dallas is filled with endless museum options for you to peruse. Fill your Saturdays with a showing of the beautiful new Sandra Cinto DMA exhibit, or head to the Nasher Sculpture Center for breathtaking views.
Need something more tactile? Spend your Saturday at the Museum of Illusions. Totally trip out at seemingly slanted rooms or snap an iconic girl squad pic in the Infinity Room.
All museums mentioned are open but in order to stay safe they will require a reservation in advance online. Easy to navigate and safe to access.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
During your girl’s staycation, there is plenty of shopping to partake in. Downtown Dallas is home to the flagship Neiman Marcus store, a luxury department store featuring high fashion brands like Alice + Olivia, CELINE, and David Yurman.
Another great luxury shopping experience can be found at Forty Five Ten. The Downtown location is open with limited hours to ensure social distancing measures.
You can also try shopping at Commerce Goods + Supply, the boutique at The Adolphus Hotel and The Taschen Library at The Joule are both unique gift shops within a 1-2 minute walk of each other.
Girls Gab over Bubbly
There are plenty of spots Downtown to grab a quick bite and chat with friends during your girls’ weekend. Transport yourself to English high tea at Mirador across from The Joule Hotel. Mirador boasts expansive views of downtown through floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound terrace overlooking Tony Tasset’s outdoor sculpture Eye. However, if you’re planning a winter staycation, the French Room at The Adolphus Hotel is currently booking for Holiday Tea Sessions starting in November.
Champagne more your game? Head to La Tarte Tropezienne for a bottle of bubbly and a savory slice of quiche. La Tarte began in Saint-Tropez and the Dallas location is the only US location available.
Spa Sessions
Take a group trip to Downtown Dallas for some much-needed girl talk and relaxation. Escape the everyday routine at The Spa at The Joule. Choose from a variety of services like the codage Paris facial, the triple body scrub, or the face and ice stone massage. Head to The Studio portion of The Spa to receive eyebrow threading, waxing, and even microblading.
Downtown Dining
Finish off each adventure with some of the best dining and drinking options Downtown Dallas has to offer. Take the gals to The Woolworth for daytime happy hour where wine is just $5 a glass and craft cocktails are just $8.
For those of us with a love for TexMex, head to Queso Beso to see the cutest interior decorating and also enjoy $10 nachos on an open and airy patio.
Want dinner with a view? The newly opened Sky Blossom Bistro is a rooftop Vietnamese fusion restaurant and bar with some of the best views of Downtown.
Head to The Statler for some adult gaming and drinking at Scout or take in some more Dallas views at the rooftop pool and bar called Waterproof.
Whatever you and the girls decide to do this weekend, Downtown Dallas is jam packed with fun and exciting activities to boost bonding, creativity, and conversation. It’s easy to make memories of a lifetime with all of the options Dallas has to offer. Let us know what you decide to do with your girlfriend’s in Dallas this weekend!
And for a complete list of open businesses, visit us here.
This article was written by Ashni Pabley. As a Dallas native, Ashni loves browsing new exhibits at the DMA or shopping small businesses at the Dallas Farmers Market. You can contact her at apabley2015@gmail.com
Downtown Dallas has almost 200 restaurants and bars, and has recently added its fair share of yummy new places to eat and drink. We figured we’d put together a list of new restaurants to keep you in the loop! We invite you to Live Like a Local and explore some of our favorite new restaurants in Downtown.
Chimalma Taco Bar Co. is named for the “mother of tacos.” The family-owned restaurant is bringing Jalisco style cuisine straight to its Commerce St. location. Be sure to swing by and find out what the goddess tacos are all about!
Think of this place as your second home! A welcoming place to bring friends and meet new ones. With a huge patio perfect for socially distancing and food and drink carefully thought out to encourage sharing and conversation, you’ll feel right at home.
New to the AT&T Discovery District, Jaxon offers a menu focused on Texas fare and elevated classic Southern dishes. Chill on the patio with a cold beer from their curated selection of 34 local and regional craft beers or specially crafted cocktails and spirits.
The new local already has a cult following for their authentic, fresh French pastries, tartes, and other delicious bites and desserts. The tiny sidewalk patio is also a hot spot for people watching while enjoying a glass (or bottle) of bubbly. Making its only U.S. debut right in the heart of Downtown Dallas, it’s a must-do to stop by and try out these yummy treats!
Located on Ross Ave., the California-based chain is your go-to place for Peruvian steak sandwiches and Napa vineyard salads. This sandwich spot is a popular choice for quick lunches and dinners, be sure to check them out!
Newly located inside The Statler, Primo’s brings a fresh take on an old favorite with inspirations ranging from the border of Texas to Southern Mexico. From its instagram famous “Soup of the day…Tequila” photo wall, to their delicious margs, their food is definitely not to be missed.
Chef and Chopped judge Amanda Freitag has opened her first restaurant located in the AT&T Discovery District. Noted as a chance to escape, relax, and enjoy a fluffy croissant or sip a perfectly foamy latte. Either way, its possibilities are open and endless.
Located in the Statler Hotel, this tasty Italian restaurant is a must try! Walk-in or make a reservation to enjoy some great pizza. For those going low carb or gluten free, you can substitute a cauliflower crust. Delivery and pickup options are available as well.
Looking for the best food, cocktails, and vibes? Look no further. Bringing southern-style comfort food to the central business district in the heart of Downtown, their chicken and waffles is a must try!
Bringing a Latin American taste to West End, Empanada Cookhouse is an innovative empanada shop where they blend Latin inspiration with local flavors. From breakfast empanadas (yup, breakfast empanadas!), to dessert empanadas, we promise you won’t regret visiting!
The ground floor of the Dallas Power and Light Building in the heart of the Main Street District is now home to Downtown’s first brewery, a natural extension of a brand that is rooted in Dallas history and tradition. Featuring a huge outdoor patio, beautiful art deco architecture, taproom & outdoor beer garden, this place is a must see!
Enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the newest and trendiest restaurants in Dallas! Located in the newly renovated, The National, Catbird offers a breathtaking view of downtown with an expansive rooftop terrace. Catbird’s design and menu options offer the perfect setting for a happy hour, dinner, or late-night food and drinks.
With a bright ambience and overlooking the 9th floor deck, Nine is only open for breakfast and lunch. It’s in room and patio dining offer the perfect luxe setting to help start your day!
As an update to our message from October 28th about this week’s public safety plans and preparations, we have provided additional information below to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
The Dallas Fusion Center, Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the Dallas Police Department Intelligence Unit, in partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety and federal partners, are in contact with each other around the clock as they monitor all intelligence streams for possible threats to our region. Significant operational planning has been conducted to account for potential unrest, as well as to ensure DPD is positioned to support a safe environment for those wishing to express their First Amendment Rights.
At this time, the intelligence community is unaware of any threats to the region, including the central business district.
Many of you are understandably concerned about protecting your property, businesses, and employees. We encourage you to remain attuned to accurate information and have resources ready for activation. We do not want to create a perception of an “unsafe Downtown” by prematurely boarding or barricading property. We have worked so hard to reopen Downtown, maintain confidence in the market, ensure safety for our community, and allow the heart of our city to be the epicenter of peaceful public discourse for all. We can all continue to cultivate a positive environment.
We will reach out IMMEDIATELY if we become aware of any threats or changes to known events.
For more information about DPD and DDI preparation, please see the full message by clicking here.
Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) is proud to announce a recommitment to our Field Operations services, continuing to emphasize our priority on a “Safe and Clean” Downtown Dallas. Efforts include an enhanced safety and security program comprised of improved visibility, response, and coverage, as well as more robust cleaning, maintenance, and homeless outreach services. This strengthening of DDI Field Operations is aimed to best serve you, Downtown’s workforce, residents, and visitors.
Public Safety is always our first priority
In 2004, DDI launched the Downtown Safety Patrol to supplement as additional “eyes and ears” for local law enforcement partners, serve as a friendly face of security Downtown, and be a resource for the Downtown community. Over the past 16 years, the team has contributed countless hours and efforts on the front lines to positively influence the Downtown experience daily, including over 90,000 hours of proactive security patrols annually.
Like any long-standing program, after evaluation, listening, and understanding Downtown’s current needs, DDI recognized an opportunity to reinforce our priority on a safe and clean Downtown under the leadership of DDI’s Senior Director of Public Safety, Albert Sanchez, whose experience includes 10 years and sergeant rank with the Dallas Police Department. As of October 15, 2020, the now-renamed Downtown Dallas, Inc. Security team (formerly Downtown Safety Patrol) has been staffed to its highest levels to date, graduating a new class of 10 additional officers earlier this month, and recruiting for another to be in training next month, to bring the total number of officers Downtown to 55. Officers will also be more visible, dawning new royal blue uniforms, brightly wrapped and lit micro-vehicles (gem cars, T-3s, and bikes), and strategically placed security stations will be visible in Downtown parks.
The DDI Security team training program is robust, resulting in highly trained, licensed security officers. The officers complete a Texas DPS required certification course in addition to a DDI-designed training program that includes expert-led courses in situational awareness, de-escalation training, crisis intervention, mental health and substance abuse, and DPD led law-enforcement. In addition, VisitDallas assists with hospitality training, along with customer service and Downtown culture curricula.
Mr. Sanchez stated, “Increasing the number of DDI Security officers to historic levels and enhancing our team’s professional appearance will significantly expand our visibility and position us to create a Downtown ‘where all feel welcomed and inspired to dream big,’ which is the mission-driving statement our team has adopted.”
In addition to regular patrol seven days per week in every area of Downtown, DDI Security responds to calls for assistance directly to dispatch and alerts submitted in our See Say Nowapp and by text. The team is also available to provide courtesy walks during hours of operation. To provide additional security to our Downtown parks, officers proactively patrol each park greeting visitors and reminding everyone of the park rules.
A Safe and CLEAN Downtown
At Downtown Dallas, Inc., we work every day to improve the quality of life for everyone in Downtown Dallas, and that means keeping our streets maintained to the highest of standards.
DDI also funds the Downtown Clean Team, a group of 17 full-time employees dedicated seven days a week to keep the Downtown streets and sidewalks clean by picking up litter, maintaining the parks, removing graffiti, and assisting with many public improvement projects in Downtown Dallas. In 2020, the Clean Team expanded not only the number of employees but also hours of operations, allowing more hours of service since the program was created. And since the pandemic began, the Clean Team has enhanced the aforementioned services and now sanitizes high-touch items in the public space and parks such as tables, benches, playgrounds, and trash receptacles.
DDI has recently doubled our power washing efforts. This enhancement will ensure roughly 500,000 square feet of sidewalks are washed monthly. Power washing services are provided throughout Downtown with a focus on pedestrian corridors and parks.
With the addition of new public spaces and parks, the Clean Team plays a vital and essential role ensuring all spaces are clean, well maintained, and welcoming to all users.
As part of our enhanced services, you will now see the Clean Team out and about in brand new green polo shirts, brightly colored trucks, litter vacuums, GEM cars, and push carts to enhance their visibility.
Homeless Outreach
The mission of our homeless outreach program is to be a steward of Downtown Dallas by implementing a strategic and innovative approach to street outreach, in combination with supporting the homeless solutions community in their efforts to end homelessness. Developed from a pilot program two years ago, DDI’s program focuses on consistent quality engagement to relate to homeless individuals, then refer those individuals, based on specific needs, to applicable service providers for long-term solutions.
Our entire Homeless Outreach team can be found throughout Downtown, engaging with the homeless population in purple polo shirts and a branded purple GEM car.
The team is comprised of an Outreach Manager, Outreach Coordinator, and a Street Outreach Specialist. They are skilled conversationalists with a passion for identifying root causes and building a roadmap out of homelessness for each individual. Through DDI’s program, the team is on track to engage in over 5,000 hours of street outreach annually.
Thanks to the collaboration with the City of Dallas Office of Homeless Solutions and many other partner organizations listed below, we have been able to have a positive impact.
Partnerships:
UT Southwestern Department of Family and Community Medicine – intern program dedicated to building sustainable and innovative programs within DDI’s Street Outreach Program
The Cardboard Project – collaboration to close the digital divide among the unsheltered homeless and scale virtual street outreach. They provide professional emails and virtual voicemails to help our homeless friends gain employment and other services.
The Bridge – created a Fellowship program that provides homeless individuals in the transition unit at The Bridge an opportunity to join the DDI Street Outreach Team. The Fellow’s role on the street outreach team is to use his/her personal testimony to connect and encourage the unsheltered homeless to seek resources that ultimately will end their homelessness.
Homeward Bound Reunification Program – DDI funded program connecting unsheltered homeless individuals to a stable support system via the purchase of Greyhound Bus tickets
“A clean and safe Downtown is the foundation of a strong core,” said Kourtny Garrett, President & CEO of Downtown Dallas, Inc. “DDI’s further investment in these programs is a direct result of the continued growth of Downtown over the last decade-plus, and I’m proud of our ability to remain nimble and respond to immediate as well as future needs.”
How to Reach Us
You can report incidents through the See Say Now app, by texting a report to 972.440.1995, or by calling the dispatch number for DDI Security and Clean Team at 214.741.1151.
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