Habitat for Humanity’s $100 million revitalization plan called the biggest investment in southern Dallas
Habitat for Humanity released a new study by Southern Methodist University that found that every $1 Habitat invests in a neighborhood generates $3 of economic activity.
By KIM HORNER
Staff Writer
Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said on Wednesday that Habitat for Humanity’s $100 million plan to revitalize five of the city’s poorest neighborhoods has the potential to change the entire city.
“Never has an investment of this scale been made in Southern Dallas,” Rawlings said at an announcement Wednesday of the nonprofit’s “Dream Dallas” plan. He urged the public to pitch in by donating to Habitat, which is still working to raise the last $30 million of the goal.
Habitat for Humanity and city officials, who made the announcement at Dallas City Hall on Wednesday, said the homes could attract new businesses and jobs – and tax revenue -- to the five areas. . .
Mike Gruber, a volunteer serving as chairman of the local Habitat’s Dream Dallas advisory council, said that many donors had been alarmed by substandard conditions during tours of the five neighborhoods.
He said lifting those areas out of poverty will be important to the city’s success.
“There’s got to be equal opportunity across the city,” he said.
The organization released a new study by Southern Methodist University that found that every $1 Habitat invests in a neighborhood generates $3 of economic activity.
Related Links:
- Read the full story. (A subscription to The Dallas Morning News may be required.)
- Related Dallas Morning News editorial.
- Read a summary of the SMU Cox study.
- Read The Wall Street Journal story on the study.
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