Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson Issues Statement on Downtown Dallas

The mayor of Dallas is weighing in on the future of downtown after the news the Dallas Mavericks are leaving for a new sports entertainment development on the north side.

The city posted the statement from Mayor Eric L. Johnson in a Tuesday press release.

The statement reads:

The news this week belies the fact that Dallas continues to thrive. But it also underscores another fundamental fact: Downtown Dallas must change. We must put aside the penny-ante politics, act like the major league city that drives this booming region’s economy, and assert ourselves in this competition with our neighbors.

And make no mistake about it, we are in competition with our neighboring cities for residents, for businesses, and for attractions. That is the generational battle ahead of us. We must fight for the city of tomorrow rather than worship decaying, outdated government buildings from bygone eras.

The Mavericks announced on Monday that its ownership had informed the city it had signed an option agreement for 104 acres at the former Valley View Mall site in North Dallas. The plans include a new arena surrounded by a mixed-use district with restaurants, entertainment options, public green spaces, and other experiences.

In response, Johnson and City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert issued a statement that applauds the organization for its "continued commitment" to Dallas and promises to continue to support the team's partnership with the city.