Viridian Project Faces Key Vote
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, December 12, 2007
The development would have more than 1.2 million mixed-use square feet.
By SUSAN SCHROCK
ARLINGTON - The Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to vote today on a developer's request to rezone more than 2,000 acres in far north Arlington for the Viridian project.
Huffines Communities of Dallas intends to build a development around the Lakes at Bird's Fort that would feature more than 1.2 million mixed-use square feet and nearly 3,900 homes. The development would be north of northeast Green Oaks Boulevard and east of Collins Street, near the Arlington landfill and River Legacy Parks.
The project, when complete, is expected to be worth $1.4 billion and bring millions of tax dollars to the city over the next 30 years.
Other developers have tried to build on the flood-prone land over the past 25 years without success.
City officials are working on creating a tax increment financing district to help pay for needed infrastructure such as streets and sewer lines.
If approved by the commission, the project will be forwarded to the City Council for review.
Project Highlights
Villages: Residential areas would be divided into villages, each with its own architecture that would reflect regions of Texas. Instead of lining streets, some homes would be clustered around green spaces to create more of a community feel.
Living: The average single-family home is expected to cost $300,000, but some would cost up to $1 million. The community would also feature mansion-homes—condominiums grouped in buildings that look like mansions. Residents could also live above shops and offices lining Collins Street.
Schools: At least two schools, which would be part of the Hurst-Euless-Bedford school district, are planned.
Passenger rail: The area could one day be the site of a passenger train depot. The Trinity Railway Express runs along the site's northern edge.
Amenities: The community would feature miles of bike trails and public green spaces. The developers plan to restore 1,100 acres of wetlands and lakes around the Trinity River. The name Viridian comes from a shade of green.