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Grand Prairie Residents Fight High-Density Housing Development Allowed by SB 840

Residents' voices silenced by SB 840. City and mayor fight back as development proceeds.

In this image there are people protesting on a road holding posters in their hands, in the...
In this image there are people protesting on a road holding posters in their hands, in the background there are buildings, trees, light poles and the sky.

Grand Prairie Residents Fight High-Density Housing Development Allowed by SB 840

Residents of Grand Prairie are up in arms over a proposed high-density housing development in their neighborhood. They blame Senate Bill 840 for stripping them of their say in the matter, with a petition gathering nearly 600 signatures against the news project.

The development, planned by Trinity Urban on land next to the Grand Peninsula neighborhood by Joe Pool Lake, has sparked concerns among residents. Homeowner Uriah Rinzel fears it will lead to traffic congestion and decrease property values. The proposed skyscraper project is allowed to proceed under the new state law, Senate Bill 840, which enables multifamily developments to be built 'by right' within commercial, retail, and industrial zones without public notice, a hearing, or a City Council vote.

In response to the new law, the City of Grand Prairie has amended its development code to set new standards for builders. Mayor Ron Jensen has joined other major city mayors in pushing back on the legislation, urging Governor Abbott to veto it.

Despite resident's frustrations and the city's efforts, the proposed development by Trinity Urban is set to proceed under the provisions of Senate Bill 840. Residents continue to voice their concerns, with a petition against the news project gathering significant support.

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