January Update from UCPID Executive Director

 

A Note from the Executive Director

January 2018

Happy New Year to the University Crossing community! December was an exciting month in University Crossing, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share.

To begin, I would like to provide some updates related to the pedestrian bridge over Mockingbird Lane (Bridge). After the Bridge opening, the University Crossing Public Improvement District (UCPID) continues to stay in close contact with the City of Dallas (City). To that end, the City has indicated that the Bridge should be well lit by the beginning of 2018. There will be "up lighting" to illuminate the support beams and "down lighting" to illuminate the sidewalk below. The City also intends to install LED hand rails along the Bridge. This installation is expected to be completed in the spring. Also, please note that this Bridge is not just an important connection to the Katy Trail. The Bridge also connects to the new University Crossing Trail, which runs north to SMU Boulevard, south to Glencoe Park and east across the DART line to Skillman Avenue. 

Additionally, in an effort to improve the quality of life of the citizens we serve, the UCPID has created a contract with a bike share company to install bike stations at strategic locations throughout our community. Unlike "Dockless Bikes," which are prevalent throughout our area, our bikes can only be left at a docking station or a bike rack. We hope this bike network can help provide an alternative form of transportation to the citizens who live, work and visit our community. We expect the "roll out" to occur sometime in February.

The UCPID continues to partner with Park & Rec. on installation of pedestrian lighting along the University Crossing Trail, which runs through our community. To that end, the UCPID has obtained bids related to the cost of this project. Over the next few months, UCPID and Park & Rec. will use these bids to develop a funding program to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Katy Trail. The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Regarding programming opportunities, I want to encourage you to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday evening at Mockingbird Station. We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program where a Dallas police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more. If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below. Furthermore, to supplement our Lunch & Learn program, the UCPID has developed a Resource Guide, which is free to all citizens.  This guide is designed to provide "helpful hints" related to such topics as: when to call 911, crime watch tips, pedestrian & bicycle safety, and how to obtain a criminal trespass affidavit. Please let us know if you would like a copy of the Resource Guide for your home or business.

Finally, as part of our ongoing effort to serve our community, the UCPID is collaborating with the City to identify public spaces that can be utilized for future art projects. We will update you as the programs develop.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to our continued partnership in the new year.

Patrick Sanders
UCPID Executive Director

December Update from UCPID Exdecutive Director

To begin, the pedestrian bridge over Mockingbird Lane (Bridge), is now open to the public! To commemorate this historic event, the University Crossing Public Improvement District (UCPID) partnered with the City of Dallas to host the official "Ribbon Cutting" ceremony on November 4th, as well as a community celebration on November 6th. This Bridge is not only an important connection to the Katy Trail, it also extends the new University Crossing Trail, which runs north to SMU Boulevard, and east across the DART line to Skillman Avenue. In short, it is a fantastic addition to our community, and I hope everyone will be able to enjoy it!

Additionally, in an effort to improve the quality of life of the citizens we serve, the UCPID partnered with other community stakeholders to provide some enhancements to our area. Specifically, the UCPID purchased a new Pet Waste Station, which was installed by the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department (Park & Rec) near the southern entrance of the new Bridge. Furthermore, the UCPID financed the installation of security fencing near a location known for criminal activity. The financing of this fencing incorporates the principal of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED), by utilizing fencing to neutralize a nexus for criminal activity.

Also, the UCPID continues to partner with the Park & Rec on installation of pedestrian lighting along the University Crossing Trail, which runs through our community. To that end, the UCPID has obtained bids related to the cost of this project. Over the next few months, the UCPID and Park & Rec will use these bids to develop a funding program, which will be used to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Katy Trail. The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Regarding programming opportunities, I want to encourage you all to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday evening at Mockingbird Station. After hearing about Music on Mockingbird, a local classical radio station contacted the UCPID and would like to partner with us in the spring in an effort to promote classical music throughout the metroplex. We will keep you posted as this collaboration develops. We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety and more. If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learnat your property, please contact us at the email below.

 

Finally, as part of our ongoing effort to serve our community, the UCPID is considering some new programs to add to our list of offerings. Specifically, the UCPID is researching the possibility of a bike share program for our area, which would include bike stations located at strategic locations in our community. Also, in an effort to promote the arts in our area, the UCPID is collaborating with the City of Dallas to identify public spaces that can be utilized for future art projects. We will update you as these programs develop.

Thank you for your support. I look forward to our continued partnership.
Patrick Sanders
UCPID Executive Director

University Crossing Trail and Bridge Over Mockingbird is Open

Pedestrian Trail and Bridge over Mockingbird Lane Opens to Public

University Crossing Community Welcomes New Statement Bridge Completing Trail Connection from Downtown to White Rock Lake

 DALLAS – November 2, 2017 – The University Crossing Public Improvement District, City of Dallas Park and Recreation and City of Dallas Department of Public Works today announced the opening of the pedestrian trail and bridge over Mockingbird Lane. The statement bridge over Mockingbird Lane and trail are the final pieces that connect Downtown Dallas to White Rock Lake with a continuous pedestrian and bicycle access.

“The completion of the bridge is another pivotal addition to the growing urban landscape of Dallas and highlights the successful partnership that happens when cities, counties and state agencies recognize the importance of connecting neighborhoods through urban trails.   The Mockingbird Pedestrian Bridge connects our great city through its creative and innovative design, offering a safe and convenient pathway for all to enjoy,” said Willis C. Winter, FAIA, Director, Dallas Park and Recreation Department.

The new University Crossing trail extension will begin in Glencoe Park and traverse over the new 6060 Bridge and through the University Crossing neighborhood until it connects with the Skillman Ave. Bridge. The University Crossing Public Improvement District (UCPID) will be adding additional lighting along the trail for increased safety which will be completed in 2018.

"The opening of both the bridge and the University Crossing Trail marks an exciting new chapter in our communities history, and to that end, the University Crossing Public Improvement District welcomes the opportunity to serve our community, in new and exciting ways,” said Patrick Sanders, executive director for the University Crossing Public Improvement District (UCPID).

 

A community event to celebrate the bridge opening is planned for Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9am – 11am in Glencoe Park and from 10am – 1pm in Mockingbird Station. Bridge champion, Angela Hunt and “Bike Czar”, Jared White will be in attendance to lead a community bike ride across the bridge. In addition, City of Dallas departments such as the Office of Cultural Affairs, Public Works and City Hall on the Go will be at the event to help celebrate the new bridge and trail extension.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY CROSSING:

University Crossing is a vibrant neighborhood consisting of more than 200 dynamic businesses and organizations including, shops, restaurants, arts attraction and more – all thriving within a 122-acre radius defined by certain borders of North Central Expressway (US 75), Mockingbird Lane, Greenville Avenue and Lovers Lane. For more information visit www.universitycrossing.com.

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November Update from UCPID Director, Patrick Sanders

Greetings to the University Crossing community! October was a busy month in University Crossing, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share:

To begin, as many of you may have seen, construction of the University Crossing Bridge is nearing substantial completion. In October, the City of Dallas worked on the final stage of the Bridge, which included safety measures such as railings and lighting. To commemorate the Bridge's completion, the City and the University Crossing Public Improvement District  have finalized plans for a ribbon cutting ceremony. The ribbon cutting will occur on November 2nd, and this will mark the formal opening of the Bridge. The ribbon cutting will be followed by a community celebration on November 4th, which is open to the public. Details of these celebrations have been sent to the UCPID community contact list. If you would like an update on the Bridge construction prior to the ceremony, you can view the time lapse photos of the Bridge by visiting our website at: www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, as noted last month, the UCPID Board of Directors approved capital improvements along Mockingbird Lane. The area of focus were the planters between Mockingbird Station and Matilda. I am pleased to report that this project has been completed and to that end, all six planters, between Mockingbird Station and Matilda, have been replanted.  Additionally, the planters were also repainted. The UCPID Board of Directors hopes you enjoy this beautification of our community!

The UCPID continues to partner with the Park & Recreation Department on the installation of pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. To that end, the UCPID has obtained bids related to the cost of this project. The UCPID and Park & Rec. will use these bids over the next few months to develop a funding program to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Kay Trail. The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Regarding programming opportunities, I want to encourage you to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station. We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety and more. If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

Finally, as part of our ongoing effort to serve our community, the UCPID is considering some new programs to add to our list of offerings. Specifically, the UCPID is researching the possibility of a bike share program for our area, which would include bike stations located at strategic locations in our community. In an effort to promote the arts in our area, the UCPID is collaborating with the City of Dallas to identify public spaces that can be utilized for future art projects. We will update you as these programs develop.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to our continued partnership.
  

University Crossing Community Event

On Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, from 9am - 11am, we will be celebrating the opening of the Mockingbird Pedestrian Bridge and Trail at Glencoe Park and Mockingbird Station. Please join us for a community bike ride at 9am and enjoy food, fun and more in Glencoe Park and in Mockingbird Station in the University Crossing neighborhood. 

Several City of Dallas Departments including City Hall on the Go, Animal Services, Dallas Police and Fire, etc., will be at the event!

Please email info@universitycrossing.com should you have any questions or visit www.universitycrossing.com. 

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, Nov. 4 in Glencoe Park!

October Update from the UCPID Executive Director

A NOTE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Greetings to the University Crossing community!  In addition to the cooler weather, September ushered in some other important developments I would like to share:

To begin, as many of you may have seen, construction of the University Crossing Bridge is entering its final phase. In September, the City of Dallas continued construction of the Bridge, which included assembling the walkway across Mockingbird Lane. Additionally, the City completed construction of a smaller bridge across the DART rail line just north of Twin Sixties Street, which will extend the trail east toward White Rock Lake. Finally, the City and the University Crossing Public Improvement District have been working closely on preparations for a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of the Bridge. Once plans are finalized, we will notify the community.  In the meantime, for up-to-date information related to Bridge construction, lane closures, or to view the time lapse photos of the construction, you can visit our website at:

 www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, as noted last month, the UCPID Board of Directors approved improvements to the planters along Mockingbird Lane. Specifically, the area of focus will be the planters between Mockingbird Station and Matilda. Over the month of September, the UCPID worked closely with the City, as well as our own contractors, to finalize a "scope of work." To that end, we believe this project will be completed by the end of October.

Also, as previously noted, the UCPID is partnering with the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department on installation of pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. To that end, the UCPID has obtained bids, related to the cost of this project.  Over the next few months, the UCPID and Park & Rec. will use these bids to develop a funding program, which will be used to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Katy Trail.  The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Speaking of programming, I want to encourage you to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs.  For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station.  We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more.  If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

Finally, as part of our ongoing effort to serve our community, the UCPID is considering some new programs to add to our list of offerings.  Specifically, the UCPID is researching the possibility of a bike share program for our area, which would include bike stations located at strategic locations in our community. Also, in an effort to promote the arts in our area, we are trying to identify locations best suited for public artwork.  As these programs develop, we will update you.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to our continued partnership.
 

Patrick Sanders
UCPID Executive Director

UCPID Spotlight on The Happy Steps

We caught up with local artist Kristi Kennimer to discuss the inspiration behind her latest work that adorns the risers of the steps that lead up to the Angelika Film Center, "Happy Steps."

The piece is all about choosing to activate, wholeheartedly, the virtues inside us that result in fulfilled lives. The piece is designed to be appreciated very simply, in that it adds a little color to the community, or contemplated on a deeper level.

The "Happy Steps" are an example of anamorphic typography, in which the word "Happy" appears distorted from many vantage points, but comes into alignment from one specific position. That position is marked on the ground level at the base of the stairs with the Mockingbird Station logo and the word "perspective."

When viewing the steps, the word "happy" can be seen in eight ways, starting with each of the eight H's, but no version can be completed without crossing through the single center Y.

September Update from Patrick Sanders: UCPID Executive Director

Greetings to the University Crossing community! August was a busy month in our area, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share:

To begin, as many of you may have seen, construction of the University Crossing Bridge is in an exciting phase.  In August, the City of Dallas continued construction of the Bridge, which now spans across Mockingbird Lane.  Additionally, the City is completing construction of a smaller bridge, across the DART rail line, just north of Twin Sixties Street.  As the City progresses with construction of the Bridge, across Mockingbird Lane, we anticipate additional lane closures.  To that end, the City and the University Crossing Public Improvement District will continue to stay in close contact, regarding the status of construction. For up-to-date information, related to Bridge construction, lane closures, or to view the time lapse photos of the construction, you can visit our website at:  www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, the UCPID Board of Directors recently approved improvements, to the planters along Mockingbird Lane.  Specifically, the area of focus will be the planters between Mockingbird Station and Matilda.  Within the next month, we hope to have the planters repainted and replanted, in an effort to beautify our community.

Also, as previously noted, the UCPID is partnering with the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department on installation of pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. Over the next few months, the UCPID and Park & Rec. will develop a funding program, which will be used to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Katy Trail.  The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Speaking of programming, I want to encourage you to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs.  For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station.  We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more.  If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the effort our community members have made to assist victims of Hurricane Harvey. Community Stakeholders, throughout the UCPID, have assisted in the relief effort. SMU University moved quickly to assist in relief efforts by partnering with other organizations like the Carter Blood Bank.  If you would like to assist with SMU's efforts, you can visit the following website:  https://giving.smu.edu/disaster-relief/. Additionally, the City of Dallas has also provided information on how to contribute to the relief effort.  That information can be found at the following website:   http://www.dallascitynews.net/help-impacted-hurricane-harvey.  The manner in which community stakeholders arose to serve was very inspirational, and if the UCPID can assist with your efforts going forward, please let us know.

Thank you for your contributions of the UCPID community, and I look forward to our continued partnership.

Patrick Sanders

UCPID Executive Director

 

SMU Campus Blood Drive

BLOOD DRIVE ON SMU CAMPUS

Carter BloodCare will be visiting SMU to host a blood drive to benefit Hurrican Harvey Victims. The schedule is as follows:

  • Tuesday September 5, 11:00 AM - 2:40 PM
  • Thursday September 7, 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Friday September 8, 10:00 AM - 2 PM
  • The van will be parked near the flagpole on these days. We look forward to seeing you there!

UCPID Organizations Helping Hurricane Harvey Victims

University Crossing is filled with organizations that are helping Hurricane Harvey victims in Houston and who have been evacuated to Dallas. As the Southeast Texas area recovers, our neighborhood in University Crossing is dedicated to helping our Texas neighbors in Houston to remain #TexasStrong and come back better than ever. In the meantime, here's how you can help in University Crossing. 

In University Crossing: 

Old Chicago Mockingbird - please drop off unopened cases of water at the Mockingbird Station location

The People's Last Stand - All night fundraiser TONIGHT with drink specials and donations

Salon Pompeo - Is collecting toiletries and supplies and transporting to Houston

7-eleven - Has given generously to the mega shelter in Dallas and is serving as a donation location for hurrican victims. 

Central Market - Join the effort H.E.B. is managing for relief in the Houston and Southeast Texas area

SMU - The Mustangs home opener on Saturday, Sept. 2 will be a free event for Hurricane Harvey evacuees in Dallas - and they will be providing food too! Use ths form to get your tickets. 

 

Help Hurricane Harvey Victims

To our University Crossing neighbors - there are several ways you can support our friends in Southeast Texas. If you would like to help by making a donation or volunteering your time, please  visit this link (provided by the City of Dallas) to get information on how best to serve: http://www.dallascitynews.net/help-impacted-hurricane-harvey.

As the University Crossing Public Improvement District receives more information, we will keep you informed.

TRAFFIC UPDATE: AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER LANE CLOSURES

AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER LANE CLOSURES

 

Beginning August 25, various lane closures will take place to support construction efforts. The schedule is as follows:

  • 8/25 - Mockingbird Station driveway and 2 westbound right lanes, 9-11 AM
  • 8/26-8/29 - The Highlands driveway, periodically during day; eastbound right lane (detour in place)
  • 8/29 - Partial Mockingbird Station driveway with traffic reduced to 1 lane, 7 AM to 10 AM
  • 8/30 - Mockingbird Station driveway, 7PM-7 AM
  • 8/31 - All westbound lanes and Mockingbird Station driveway, 8 PM-5AM
  • 9/7 - All eastbound lanes and MB Station driveway, 8 PM to 5 AM

For progress photos and up-to-date information on area closures, visit the Bridge website at http://www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

August Update from the UCPID Executive Director

Greetings to the University Crossing community! July was a busy month in our area, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share:

To begin, as many of you may have seen, construction of the University Crossing Bridge ("Bridge") is entering an exciting phase. In July, the City of Dallas ("City") installed the frames that will support the Bridge across Mockingbird Lane. Additionally, in the first few days of August, the City installed a pedestrian and bike bridge across the DART rail line, just north of Twin Sixties St. This smaller bridge will help connect our area to White Rock Lake, by allowing bicyclists to cross the DART rail line safely. As the City progresses with construction of the Bridge, across Mockingbird Lane, we anticipate additional lane closures. To that end, the City and the University Crossing Public Improvement District ("UCPID") will continue to stay in close contact, regarding the status of construction. Therefore, for up-to-date information, related to Bridge construction, lane closures, or to view the time lapse photos of the construction, you can visit our website at: www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, at the request of the UCPID, the City has begun installation of chain link fencing under the Greenville Ave. and Matilda Ave. bridges, just north of Mockingbird Lane. The purpose of this fencing is to help secure these areas from homeless encampments, which have "sprung up" in these areas from time to time. The UCPID appreciates the City's efforts, related to these improvements, and we look forward to working with City on additional improvements, in the coming months.

Also, as noted last month, the UCPID is partnering with the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department ("Park & Rec") on installation of pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. Over the next few months, the UCPID and Park & Rec. will develop a funding program, which will be used to install the light fixtures along this portion of the Katy Trail. The UCPID will provide updates as this program progresses.

Speaking of programming, I want to encourage you to take part in some of the UCPID's ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station. We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more. If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the management of Mockingbird Station for commissioning a fantastic new public mural on their property! Recently, a mural was painted on the stairway, leading from Mockingbird Station to the Angelika Movie Theater. This new mural is a great piece of public art, for our entire community to enjoy, and I encourage to visit it when you have the opportunity.

As always, if you have any suggestions or would like more information about one of the programs described above, please email us at: info@universitycrossing.com.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to your continued feedback.

Patrick Sanders 

UCPID Executive Director

Spotlight On: Room Four Guitar Studio

Established in 2009 and centrally located across from the SMU campus, RoomFour Guitar Studio is a place dedicated to the joy of learning guitar with students of all ages and abilities. From beginners to veterans, jam sessions to recording sessions, R4GS has something for everyone.

R4GS is hosting a free group lesson for kids on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 3 p.m. and one for adults at 4 p.m. For more information, visit: http://www.roomfourguitar.com/

July Update from the UCPID Executive Director

Greetings to the University Crossing community! June was a busy month in our area, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share:


To begin, construction of the University Crossing Bridge ("Bridge") continues to move forward at an exciting pace. Starting in late June, the City of Dallas ("City") began installing the frames that will be used to support the Bridge over Mockingbird Lane. The City anticipates this installation process will continue throughout the month of July. The City and the University Crossing Public Improvement District ("UCPID") will continue to stay in close contact, regarding the status of construction. Therefore, for up-to-date information, related to Bridge construction, lane closures, or to view the time lapse photos of the construction, you can visit our website at: www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, at the request of the UCPID, the City plans to make improvements to several intersections in our area in an effort to improve pedestrian safety. The planned improvements include: rebuilding the traffic signal at Greenville Ave. & Lovers Lane, installation of flashing yellow arrow left turn signals for all approaches at Greenville Ave. & Milton, installation of flashing yellow arrow left turn signals for all approaches at Greenville Ave. & University, installation of flashing yellow arrow left turn signals for westbound traffic at Greenville & Mockingbird Lane, installation of flashing yellow arrow left turn signals for eastbound traffic at Matilda & Mockingbird Lane, and installation of flashing yellow arrow right turn signals for northbound and southbound traffic at Central & Mockingbird Lane. The UCPID appreciates the City's efforts, related to these improvements, and we look forward to working with City on additional pedestrian improvements, in the coming months.

Furthermore, the UCPID will be partnering with the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department ("Park & Rec") on a major improvement project, designed to install pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. To fund this project, it was recently confirmed that our partnership would receive a grant from the North Central Texas Council of Governments ("NCTCOG"), in the full amount we requested. As a result, the UCPID will be working closely with Park & Rec to implement this project. First, we will finalize a Design Proposal, and then, using the Design Proposal as our guide, we will work on installation of the pedestrian lighting fixtures, along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. The UCPID will provide updates as this project progresses.

Finally, I want to encourage you to take part in some of our ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station. We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more. If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

If you have any suggestions or would like more information about one of the programs described above, please email us at: info@universitycrossing.com.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to your continued collaboration!

 

Patrick Sanders

UCPID Executive Director 

June Update from UCPID Executive Director

Greetings to the University Crossing community!  May was a busy month in our area, and as such, there are some updates I would like to share:

To begin, construction of the University Crossing Bridge ("Bridge") continues to move forward at an exciting pace. As you may have seen, during the month of May, the City of Dallas ("City") installed the final two (2) support towers along Mockingbird Lane to support the new Bridge. With the installation of these towers, the City is now moving on to the next phase of construction, which includes installation of the Bridge component that will cross over Mockingbird Lane. The City of Dallas and the University Crossing Public Improvement District ("UCPID") will continue to stay in close contact regarding the status of construction.  For up-to-date information, related to Bridge construction, lane closures, or to view the time lapse photos of the construction, you can visit our website at:  www.universitycrossingbridge.com.

Additionally, as noted last month, the UCPID contracted with the City of Dallas to repaint crosswalks at three (3) strategic intersections in our community. Specifically, cross-walks were repainted at:  Mockingbird Lane & Mockingbird Station, Greenville Avenue & SMU Blvd., and Greenville Avenue & Milton. Repainting these crosswalks is part of the UCPID's overall strategy to improve pedestrian safety in our area, and we hope this will improve your pedestrian experience.

Furthermore, the UCPID will be partnering with the City of Dallas, Park & Recreation Department ("Park& Rec") on a major improvement project, designed to install pedestrian lighting along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community. To fund this project, the UCPID was recently informed that our partnership will be supported by a grant from the North Central Texas Council of Governments ("NCTCOG").

Currently, the UCPID is waiting for confirmation of the final grant amount. However, once that figure is confirmed, the UCPID will be working closely with Park & Rec to implement this project.  First, we will finalize a Design Proposal, and then, using the Design Proposal as our guide, we will work on installation of the pedestrian lighting fixtures, along the portion of the Katy Trail extension that runs through our community.  The UCPID will provide updates as this project progresses.

Finally, I want to encourage you to take part in some of our ongoing programs. For example, with our Music on Mockingbird program, the UCPID sponsors live music every Friday at Mockingbird Station.  We also encourage you to take advantage of our Lunch & Learn program, where a Dallas Police officer can visit your place of business and offer "Best Practices" related to calling 911, motor vehicle safety, and more.  If you are interested in scheduling a Lunch & Learn at your property, please contact us at the email below.

If you have any suggestions or would like more information about one of the programs described above, please email us at:  info@universitycrossing.com.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to your continued collaboration!

Patrick Sanders
UCPID Executive Director

UCPID Annual Property Owner's Meeting

University Crossing Public Improvement District's property owners are invited to the annual property owners' meeting on Thursday, June 8 at 11am. 

The meeting will be held at the Magnolia Hotel located in University Crossing at 6070 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75206. 

Patrick Sanders, UCPID executive director, will be presenting the highlights from last year, as well as plans for the next year. Further, City officials will be in attendance to discuss progress on the Mockingbird Pedestrian Bridge. In addition, lunch will be provided to attendees.

Please RSVP to info@universitycrossing.com.

 

Mockingbird Lane Closures & Detours - May 16

TRAFFIC LANE CLOSURES & DETOURS: MAY 16


On May 16th between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., contractors will pour Abutment #5 inside of Mockingbird Station. Westbound Mockingbird Lane (near the Mockingbird Station driveway) will be closed, and access will be limited to one lane through the Mockingbird Station parking lot. There will be a flagger onsite, and concrete trucks may be noisy.

For the latest updates on Mockingbird Bridge, visit http://www.universitycrossingbridge.com