A Park with Purpose.
Our story (so far)
Halperin Park is more than a park; it’s a park with a purpose.
It signifies hope and opportunity for a historically underserved community.
Halperin Park, which opened in spring 2026, is a welcoming gathering place designed to bring people together. Spanning Interstate 35E between Ewing and Marsalis avenues, the five-acre bridge park reconnects the historic Oak Cliff neighborhood while helping spark environmental, economic and community revitalization.
By bridging communities once divided by the highway, the park expands access to amenities and serves as a catalyst for development and economic opportunity.
IMPACTS
Community Impact
Community first mindset
Environmental Impact
Creating a greener Oak Cliff
Economic Impact
Catalyst for opportunity
Creating a brighter future.
Through revitalization, opportunity and equality.
Guided by its Community First Plan, Halperin Park was shaped by the voices of area residents, community leaders, local businesses and nonprofit organizations. Their ideas helped create an inclusive, welcoming space that reflects the character and priorities of the surrounding neighborhoods.
For decades, Oak Cliff was divided in two by Interstate 35E. The park was envisioned as a catalyst for change—expanding access to amenities while positively impacting economic opportunity, health and wellness, education and long-term community stability.
LEADERSHIP
Our Leaders
Guided by purpose.
Led by President and CEO April Allen, a longtime Dallas business and non-profit executive and Oak Cliff resident, the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation was organized in 2017.
The Foundation’s diverse 13-member Board of Directors represents community leaders, area businesses and cultural institutions. The Board includes legal experts, neighborhood advocates, and community partners.
OUR FUTURE
Looking to the Future.
Turning a bold vision into reality.
Halperin Park has been years in the making and will be completed in two phases. Phase One—opening in spring 2026—includes the 2.8 acre section from Ewing to Lancaster Avenues and features a pavilion, amphitheater, playground area, interactive fountains, a second level overlooking the Dallas Zoo and a large event room for dining and special events.
Phase Two—currently in its design and engineering stage—will add the park section toward Marsalis Avenue, creating a total park of 5.3 acres. Expected to generate $1 billion in economic impact within its first five years, the park continues to seek support to bring its full vision and planned amenities to life.
