Frequently Asked Questions

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A construction permit is not needed for items such as wallpapering, painting or similar finish work.

Plumbing, mechanical and electrical work, replacement or repair of fixtures (such as changing water faucets or replacing switches) does not normally require a permit. Replacing a water heater or adding a permanently wired light fixture does, however, require a permit.

To determine if your project needs a permit, call 214-987-5411.

Homeowners thinking about remodeling their home or adding other improvements, such as decks, spas or retaining walls, many times have a number of questions about building permits.

Since each construction project is unique, we invite you to call the Community Development Department at 214-987-5411 for answers to your specific questions.

Permits are the means by which the City of University Park regulates construction. They are designed to ensure that all construction in the City is safe. The safety of the occupants of buildings is the primary reason for having construction codes. The City of University Park has adopted several national codes, among them the International Codes and National Electrical Code. In addition, there are federal, state and local laws that govern construction, such as those covering energy conservation.

There are several different types of permits, based on the type of construction: building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical. In addition, the complete demolition and relocation of buildings also requires permits.

Obtaining the permit is just the first step in the process. In this step, you may need to create plans to submit to the department, make a plot plan for your property showing the improvements, and show the type of construction you will be using. The City has handouts to help you through this process. Once plans are approved, you are required to build the project to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, they must be made with the City's approval.

The second half of the process is the inspection of the work.

A construction permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases, a permit is needed for repair or replacement of existing fixtures, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical or mechanical permit may be needed for any addition or changes to a building's existing system; for example, moving or adding an electrical outlet requires a permit.

To find out if your project needs a permit, call 214-987-5411.

Construction permits are issued by the Community Development Department at the City's:
Peek Service Center
4420 Worcola
Dallas, TX 75206

Permits are available from 8 am until 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Call 214-987-5411 for information.

Permit issuance periods vary. Some projects can be fully permitted over-the-counter, meaning a return trip won't be needed. Some projects, however, require that plans be left for additional review.

Construction is permitted between the hours of 7 am and 6 pm, Monday through Saturday, except by special permission.

Construction work is prohibited on Sundays and on the following holidays:

• New Years Day
• MLK Jr. Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• July 4th
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day

Zoning establishes, within a defined area, the types of buildings and what they may be used for. A residential area for example, may be zoned Single Family District 1 (SF-1), which means that the lots can contain one single-family home and the lots are of a prescribed minimum area, width, and depth.

Zoning is regulated based on the zoning map and district use charts approved by the City Council. View the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance.

City staff can answer your questions about permitted uses, building setback requirements, or other specifics regarding a particular zoning district or property. Call 214-987-5411.

Other government agencies may need to review and approve your project. The City will inform you of these reviews at the time plans are submitted.

If a permit, when needed, is not obtained before construction, you have violated City codes and regulations and may be subject to fines and penalties. You will be required to obtain permits for the work and it must pass inspection, or you will have to return the structure or site to its original condition.

Remember: Construction codes were created for safety reasons. Work built without a permit can be unsafe, no matter how good it looks.

Contractors or your agent can obtain permits. The homeowner can also obtain the permits. All plumbing, mechanical, or electrical permits must be obtained by licensed contractors.

You can do the work yourself, but you must follow your approved plans, whether they are drawn by an architect or designer or are standard construction requirements given to you by the City. If you change the plans while building the structure, this will cause problems when the project is inspected. If you do decide to make changes, check with the City's plan review staff or your field inspector.

It is your responsibility to call the City for inspections at specific times during construction. You may have your contractor make the call, but it is still your responsibility, as the property owner, to make sure the inspections occur. Inspections are made during certain points in the project, depending on the work that is being performed. For example, retaining walls require inspections of the footing, after block is laid and steel placed but before grouting, after backfill has been placed, and when all work is finished.

Remember: The project is not complete for legal purposes until it has passed the final inspection.

Generally, permits expire after 60 days if no inspections have been made. In order for the project to be complete, it must pass final inspection. If a permit expires before final inspection, the project is in violation of City codes. If this is your case, call. We will help you reactivate the permit or apply for another with as little inconvenience as possible. Our interest is in seeing your project complete, including the final inspection.

Yes, for dogs.

No, but pet owners are strongly encouraged to clean up after their pets.

Utility Billing Office at City Hall.

No the City does not adopt out animals.

The limit of animals per household is three.

Try letting your neighbor know that his/her dog is a problem. If that does not work, call Animal Control at 214-987-5371 (voicemail) or 214-363-3000 (dispatch center).

If the bite or scratch has broken the skin, clean the wound and call Animal Control.  Medical attention may also be appropriate.

No, exotic animals are not allowed to live in the city.

• Call Animal Control to see if the animal was picked up
• Check with the clinic to identify the animal
• Bring the rabies certificate to City Hall with the appropriate impoundment fee

These requirements are in place to help prevent damage to underground utilities. Careless digging ranks as the major cause of underground utility accidents.

To Locate Natural Gas Pipes, Electric Lines, and Other Underground Utilities Call 811:

• Call 811 at least two working days before digging. 811 is the national toll-free telephone number that Congress enacted to prevent damages to underground utility lines caused by digging.
• The 811 operator will ask a few questions about your project and will send your information to the professional line locators.
• The line locators will stake different colored flags or spray temporary paint on the ground to mark the paths of natural gas pipes, electric lines and all other underground utilities.
• The Texas 811 service does not charge for locating any utility lines or explaining state excavation laws.

To Locate Water, Sewer, Traffic, and City Fiber Optic Lines Call the City of University Park at 214-987-5496 or email Line Locates.

• The City requires two full business days to mark the area you have requested (exceptions: emergency locates).
• When requesting locates, you will be asked to provide your name, number, company name, type of work you are doing, and location of the project you are working on. Specify if the project is outlined in white markers and whether you need locates marked in the front of the property, in the street, behind the curb, on the side or in the rear of the property.
• After requesting locates, you will soon see some colored marks or flags at your jobsite letting you know where underground lines are so you can safely dig. If any lines are clear of that area, "clear" will be written on the ground.
• You must call back in two weeks if you are still working on your project to request updated locates before locates expire.
• This service is free. The city does not charge for locating city water, sewer, traffic signal conduits and City fiber optic lines.

To Locate Buried Lines on Private Property Call a Plumber:

The 811 services and the City of University Park cannot mark buried lines on private property. A commercial line-locating firm or a licensed plumber should be able to mark all private utility lines. Generally speaking, any lines running from a water meter to the house are the homeowners' responsibility, and any sewer lines from the City main to the house are the homeowners' responsibility.

• Take special care when working around all utility line markings.
• Dig by hand in the tolerance zones indicated by the line markings.

• If you damage a natural gas pipeline (even if it’s only a nick, scrape, or dent), call 911 and then call Atmos Energy’s emergency number at 866-322-8667, so that Atmos can inspect the pipeline and make any repairs. Even minor damage can weaken a pipeline and cause a future leak.
• If you damage a water / sewer line, call the City of University Park water emergency line at 214-987-5496.
• If you damage other cables, phone lines, etc., call 811 back and report a “dig up” ticket. Texas811 will identify the line and let the excavator contact the company directly to report the damage. The company will send out a repair crew to restore service.  The City must also be contacted at the time of damage at 214-987-5405.

If you do, we'd like to hear from you. Video surveillance is one of the best methods for apprehending criminals and convicting suspects who are caught in the act of committing a crime. Installing video surveillance is a great example of community-police partnerships and is something UPPD values highly.

The Community Camera Program allows residents and business owners to register the locations and capabilities of their security camera systems with the University Park Police Department. Using this information, when a crime occurs, UPPD will know the locations of nearby video cameras and be able to contact residents to determine if their cameras captured any video evidence.

Because they are caught in the act of committing the crime, video surveillance is one of the best methods to catch suspects and convict them. As crimes occur nearby, many residents and business owners are unaware that their camera systems may have captured information that could help solve a crime. Likewise, police are not always aware of who may have potentially vital video evidence. By registering your camera system, officers can quickly identify nearby cameras that may have captured criminal activity. After registering your camera system, you will only be contacted by UPPD if there is a criminal incident in the vicinity of your security camera system and police personnel believe viewing your video footage will assist in the investigation. At no time will UPPD have remote access to your camera system.

The City of University Park, TX Purchasing Department has partnered with OpenGov for our e-procurement needs. We encourage all interested suppliers to join our vendor list by registering on a procurement portal. 

Our e-Procurement Portal allows prospective Vendors and Suppliers the ability to:

• Register to receive notifications of future opportunities by signing up for our new e-Procurement Portal and selecting the “Subscribe” button to create an account.
• Follow along with updates to existing opportunities by finding the opportunity and clicking the “Follow” button. This will allow all interested bidders to receive amendments and addenda
• automatically.
• Submit questions and receive answers online regarding open bid opportunities.
• Use a guided process of responding electronically to bids. This ensures that your bids have been accurately completed.
• Receive timely support for bid questions.
• Have one location for all bid opportunities issued by the City of University Park, TX.

There is no cost for vendors to register in OpenGov.

Need help? Please see our help file. 

Vendors may obtain bid information and packages by the following methods:

• OpenGov Procurement Portal: Register for free. Registered vendors may use the portal to request automatic notices of bid opportunities, download bid packets, submit offers online, and much more!
• Purchasing Office: Come to the Purchasing Office, now located at City Hall:
  3800 University Blvd.
  University Park, TX 75205
• Legal Notices: Review legal notices in the Daily Commercial Record, published Monday through Friday.

Bid openings are communicated through Zoom. Please refer to the bid packet for instructions on how to join these meetings at no charge using your phone or computer. These meetings are recorded and a link is posted to the specific project page in OpenGov. 

Bid tabulations are available through our OpenGov procurement portal. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please contact Elizabeth Anderson, Purchasing Manager. 

The City participates in the State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program. For information on becoming certified as a HUB vendor, go to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts HUB Program page or contact them at 888-863-5881 or 512-463-5872.

The City of University Park contracts with Rene Bates Auctioneers for the disposal of surplus property. The City's Fleet Manager is the City's auction coordinator; you can call the coordinator at 214-987-5440.

The Purchasing Division is open Monday through Friday, 7 am to 4 pm, except holidays. Vendors may schedule a meeting with the purchasing agent by calling 214-987-5480.

As stormwater runoff travels over driveways, lawns, and sidewalks, it picks up a wide variety of chemicals, waste, and trash that are not naturally found in waterways. Stormwater runoff enters the storm drain system through inlets and discharges untreated into creeks, streams, rivers, and lakes. Local concerns include Turtle Creek and the ponds in Williams Park, Curtis Park, and Caruth Park.

Some chemicals and other substances in stormwater can be toxic, even at small levels. They endanger plants and animals that depend on the water to survive. Other items containing no chemicals like leaves and grass clippings decompose in our waterways and cause the same problems for fish and aquatic life. Soil, sand, and minerals used in landscaping can also cloud waterways. Again, that inhibits underwater plant growth and depletes oxygen levels.

Stormwater pollution can be controlled if everyone plays a part in preventing these substances from entering the storm drain inlets in the streets where they live and work.

Residents can help prevent stormwater pollution by:

• Picking up after your pets
• Asking your landscaper to avoid blowing leaves and grass clippings onto sidewalks and streets
• Applying fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides when rain is not expected
• Picking up litter
• Disposing of hazardous chemicals properly and notifying University Park's Public Works Department of construction sites that aren't properly controlling stormwater runoff

Contractors can also help prevent stormwater pollution at job sites. Here is some more information:

• Preventing stormwater pollution at construction sites (PDF)
• What is a stormwater pollution prevention plan (PDF)

View the calendar if you are interested in attending environmentally-focused events at Southern Methodist University.

If you have feedback regarding the City's stormwater programs that you would like to share, please email Jodie Ledat.

Another way you can help is to let us know if you see a spill or discharge. A spill is any release of material that threatens human health or the environment. An illicit discharge is any discharge to the City's storm sewer that is not composed entirely of stormwater, except discharges that are allowed by permit.

If you see oil, antifreeze, paint, or any other questionable material being spilled or intentionally dumped on the roadway or into a stormwater inlet, please contact Jodie Ledat at 214-987-5447 or by emailing Jodie Ledat.

Learn how you can make a big difference on our local waterways (PDF).

These websites provide a wealth of additional information on this subject:

• Earth 911 Website
• Take Care of Texas Website
• City of Dallas Where Does It Go Page
• Texas Smart Scape Website

That is the stormwater utility fee, which was approved by the University Park City Council in December 2003. The fee is designed to raise money to pay for federal- and state-required improvements to the city's stormwater, meaning any water that goes down the storm drain and ultimately into Turtle Creek and the Trinity River.

"Impermeable" refers to hard surfaces, such as concrete or roofs, that do not allow water to permeate or infiltrate them. Impermeable surfaces result in the runoff, meaning water that drains off a piece of property and goes elsewhere.

The stormwater utility fee is based on an approximate amount of impermeable surface for properties of the same zoning classification. For residential parcels, separate rates were developed for each zoning classification. An average residential unit (in this case, Single Family 4 zoning) was used as the basis for the fees. The proposed rate was divided by the average impervious area of the parcels in this class to determine the rate per square foot of impervious area. The resulting cost per square foot was used to set the other rate classes. Residential rates are based upon specific classes of residential land use, and each class is billed its own flat rate. Nonresidential customers are billed based on the maximum allowable impermeable area for that property under local development regulations.

The proposed residential rate structure is as follows. Duplex and multi-family properties will be billed on a per-unit basis.

Residential Monthly Rate

Nonresidential (i.e., commercial) properties are assessed at $0.0037 per square foot of the maximum allowable impermeable area for their property.

View the zoning map page.

The City Council approved the fee after extensive review by the Public Works and Finance Advisory Committees, City staff, and engineering consultants. Articles in the City newsletter and a public hearing in December 2003 preceded the final adoption by the Council.

The fee's revenue is used to implement the City's stormwater management program. The program includes stormwater or drainage capital projects; operational costs, such as maintenance of storm sewers, ponds, and streams; and support for environmental compliance programs.

Before the fee, the City used general tax revenues to support its stormwater efforts. This pulls money away from projects and programs in other departments. Like many other Texas communities, the City is required to comply with the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Phase II program for Municipal Separate Storm Systems (MS4s). Many north Texas cities have had a stormwater utility fee in place for years.

The City can generate funds in a more equitable manner. The utility fee allows the City to levy a charge that is proportional to the cost of stormwater service for that property. In contrast, with general taxes, each property owner pays the same percentage of their property tax rate to support the stormwater program, regardless of the amount of runoff their property generates. Under this approach, some entities also benefit from stormwater services but pay nothing.

Stormwater management involves control of stormwater quantity and quality. Stormwater quantity management focuses on managing the volume or amount of stormwater as well as the speed of runoff resulting from various storms. Stormwater quality management focuses on the prevention of water pollution by requiring best management practices for various activities, including construction.

Municipalities and utility districts utilize best management practices, including development policies, capital projects to construct stormwater sewers, ditches, and basins, and operational practices to ensure stormwater management. The goals of these efforts are improved drainage, prevention of flood damage, and improved water quality.

A written petition from a clear majority of the property owners along both sides of the street should be forwarded to:

Director of Public Works at City Hall
3800 University Boulevard
University Park, TX 75205

The request should describe the requested restriction (i.e., No Parking, 2-Hour - Weekdays / 8 am to 5 pm, etc). Any parking change requires City Council action.

You should contact the Police Department at immediately.

The "Walk" light should only stay on for about 4 to 6 seconds and should provide notice to the pedestrian that it is safe to cross the street. After 4 to 6 seconds, the light should change to a "Flashing Don't Walk" for several seconds, before a "Solid Don't Walk" light is seen. The three combined lights should provide more than adequate time for pedestrians to cross the street safely.

A request should be forwarded to the City (call 214-987-5400 for the subject intersection. An independent traffic-consulting engineer will then determine whether site conditions, as defined in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, are sufficient to install the requested sign. The criteria analyzed for stop sign installation are sight obstructions, crash history, and traffic volume. These are the only criteria that can be used in the analysis for the placement of stop signs. 

The City Council policy is that speed humps will not be installed on streets within University Park.

Yes. A written petition detailing the request from a clear majority of the property owners on both sides of the alley should be forwarded to:

Director of Public Works at City Hall
3800 University Boulevard
University Park, TX 75205

You may request (call 214-987-5430 that the City install a convex mirror at the subject location to enhance your ability to see pedestrians or oncoming vehicles. 

Yes (except on Halloween) - please contact the Traffic Division at 214-987-5430. To download a Block Party request form, visit the Block Party Requirements page.

The City does not install "Children at Play" signs because they are not approved by the latest edition of the Manual of Traffic Control Devices, they provide a false sense of security, and there is no evidence that drivers heed the signs.

The Traffic Control Division maintains the decorative "antique" street lamps along Hillcrest, Snider Plaza, Preston, and Lovers Lane. All other streetlights within University Park are owned and maintained by Oncor Electric Delivery. You may report an inoperative light by calling the City at 214-987-5430 or Oncor at 888-313-4747.

Please call 214-987-5430 to report the situation.

The University Park Public Library is located at:
8383 Preston Center Plaza
Suite 200
University Park, TX 75225

The library is located in the Plaza at Preston Center. Parking is available at street level and in an underground parking garage. When parking in the garage, you may park in any space that is not numbered. From the garage you can take the library's elevator directly to the 2nd floor. If the library's elevator is unavailable, call the library for assistance with the building elevator.

Our phone number is 214-363-9095.

Library Browsing Hours

Tuesday through Thursday
10 am to 8 pm

Friday and Saturday
10 am to 5 pm

The library is closed Sundays and Mondays

Curbside Pick-Up Hours

Tuesday through Thursday
10 am to 8 pm

Friday and Saturday
10 am to 5 pm

Yes. Our story times for the school year are as follows:

• Toddlers (18 Months to 3 Years) - Wednesdays at 10:30 am
• Babies (0 to 18 Months) - Tuesdays at 10:30 am

During the summer, we have special performers and programs on Wednesdays. Please visit the Library Calendar of Events for the schedule. There are no story times in June, July, and August. 

Yes, you can browse and search the Library's Online Catalog. The library's catalog may also be searched from your mobile device using the Library's App.

Library cards are free to anyone who resides in the Highland Park Independent School District. Go to the library's service desk to apply for one. A card gives the applicant checkout privileges at the library. The card is valid for three years. By signing the back of the card, the library patron agrees to accept responsibility for use of the card and to follow all library policies. For adults 18 and over, library cards are obtained by presenting a valid photo ID and proof of address. Those under age 18 must be connected to an adult sponsor (parent or guardian) and be able to sign or print their name. The adult sponsor must be a registered borrower.

Your library account number is the 14-digit number on the back of your library card (no spaces between digits). Your PIN is the last four digits of your library card number. You can change the pin in the "My Account" area of the Library's Online Catalog. You need the full number and the PIN to gain access to the Library's electronic resources.

Every adult is required to have their own library card. With prior approval, caregivers are permitted to use an adult library card. Due to privacy laws, we cannot look up or alter someone else's library account for a person to whom it does not belong.

A lost library card should be reported immediately. There is a $10 fee to replace a lost card.

All items marked "New" are checked out for two weeks, with a limit of 2 new items. DVDs and magazines are checked out for one week with a limit of 2 per card. Launch Pads are checked out for one week and are limited to 1 per household, with no option to renew. Other materials are limited to 50 per card and may be checked out for three weeks. The check out period for electronic resources will be shown on the website for that resource.

Present your library card or smart phone with the library app at the service desk with the selected items. You may also check out items with your library card at one of the two self-check units in the library. Items may be renewed 5 times, unless another patron has placed a "hold" on them in the electronic catalog. Renewal can be made by phone, online, on the library app, or in person.

Access the Library's Online Catalog, log on to "My Account." Then, under "Loans," click on "Renew." You use your 14-digit library card number for your username, and the last four digits as your PIN. Then click on the "My Account" tab and click on the "Check Outs" tab. You may then select the items you wish to renew.

Items may also be renewed through the library app. In the app, go to "My Account. Under "Checkouts," touch the item(s) you wish to renew then touch the "Renew" button.

Items that do not have a "hold" placed on them may be automatically renewed for you up to three times as a courtesy, as long as your library account is in good standing.

Visit the Library's Online Catalog, and click on "Search Catalog." Then, click on the "Place Hold" link. Then, type in your library account number and PIN. Items may also be placed on hold through the library app. Search for your title in the "Search the Catalog" field, and then click on the "Place Hold" button. If you are signed into the app with your account information, the hold will be placed for you.

Library material is placed on "Hold" by a patron by phone, online, or in person. This tags the item in the electronic catalog, and alerts the staff to pull the item when it is returned and hold it for the requester. With prior approval, a family member may pick up a hold for their family. The library provides patrons with "Hold Notices" by phone message and email.

If items become overdue, borrowing privileges are suspended until you return them and pay the accrued fines. If you have an email address, a courtesy notice may be sent to you one day before an item reaches overdue status. When material is one week overdue, the library sends an Overdue Notice. The overdue fine is 25 cents per item, per day. At six weeks, you are delinquent and the library considers the book "lost" and you will be billed the item.

Staff will ask you for an alternate form of ID and then verify the database before checking out your items. This courtesy will be extended twice before you will be asked to replace your library card for $10.

If you lose an item the library will charge you the cost of the item and a $10 processing fee. Alternatively, the library will only accept an identical, new copy of the item. You will still be charged a $10 processing fee.

The library's book-drop is available 24 hours every day for materials return.

The email is a courtesy provided by the library. This notice is subject to internet outages. You are not relieved of your obligation to return materials. When materials are one week overdue, you will receive a fine notice by regular mail. Please also note that your borrowing privileges will be suspended after your account has accrued $5 in overdue item fees.

You can search our catalog in the library, on the Library's app, or access our online catalog.

The library accepts book donations by appointment only.  Donated materials must be hardcover books that have been published within the last five years.  Only high-demand duplicate titles will be accepted.  Book donations are limited to two small boxes or bags per household per month.

The zoning case is a proposed amendment to Planning Development District Number 1 – Retail.  This area is more commonly known as Snider Plaza.  This is a two-part request:

• Approval of a Concept Plan for the Street Zone and Sidewalk Zone within the public domain of Snider Plaza
• Expand the boundary to incorporate additional parking on the Rankin Avenue lot on the northeast corner with Hursey Street

Included in a Conceptual Site Plan is information from the applicant, the City of University Park regarding proposed plans for parking, street cross-sections, pedestrian access to the district and sidewalks.   

Yes, the boundary of PD-1-R for Snider Plaza is proposed to expand to include the Rankin Avenue lot to be used for Snider Plaza parking. This lot is near Hursey Street, adjacent to Snider Plaza and was acquired by the City of University Park in accordance with the 2009 Snider Plaza parking study and resulting adopted Zoning Ordinance .   

After the Planning and Zoning Commission holds a public hearing and acts on the zoning case, the zoning case and Commission’s recommendation will then be presented to the City Council for a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Planned Development District Number 1 - Retail.  After the public comments are received, the City Council may take action to amend the Zoning Ordinance for the District. 

Images and information on the proposed improvements for Snider Plaza can be found on the City’s website. In addition, those interested can also visit the mock-up for the Snider Plaza enhancements at the corner of Rankin and Hursey.

The City of University Park is committed to equipping Snider Plaza with a sustainable future and providing a seamless experience for daily shoppers by upgrading critical infrastructure and reviving the look of the Plaza. The goal is to ensure it remains a functional, beautiful and safe place to commune, shop and live for generations to come.

This project includes revitalized and brand-new streets, sidewalks, storm drainage lines, lighting, benches, trash receptacles, bike racks, central fountain and parking spaces. Landscaping will be added when construction is completed.

The majority of Snider Plaza south of Rankin is included. The City Council’s decision to phase Snider Plaza improvements was largely impacted by right-of-way differences between the southern and northern portions of Snider Plaza.  In the southern portion (Daniel to Rankin), the City’s right-of-way extends between storefronts.  However, in the northern portion, the City’s right-of-way narrows. The City began requesting easements from property owners in January 2023, but was not successful in obtaining all easements necessary to complete the project in the northern portion of Snider Plaza. The City will continue to design this area in hopes of completing future phases.

The first phase of the Snider Plaza improvements project currently under construction is scheduled for six total construction phases over 18 months, with completion of the first phase projected for fall 2025.

In partnership with University Park Parks & Recreation, the City is removing all trees and plants in the Plaza because many are not suited for paved environments and sidewalks, and there is a risk they will be damaged during construction. There are plans to plant 70+ new trees of more appropriate species in the Plaza. There will be a mix of both young and mature trees planted. Additionally, new flower beds will be installed with an array of plant life.

The majority of landscaping will occur at the end of the project so plant life is not damaged during construction.

Follow the City of University Park on Instagram, Facebook and X. Also, sign up for regular email communications.

Detours will change depending on the phase of the project. Stay updated by visiting the City's website regularly, following us on social media, and signing up for regular email communications.

Currently, there are no plans to permanently change the directional usage of any streets or alleyways within or surrounding Snider Plaza.

The City has established the Snider Plaza Parking Task Force, which is made up of stakeholders from the Plaza and the surrounding neighborhood, to solicit community feedback on possible parking solutions.

The goal is to ensure Snider Plaza parking maximizes capacity and efficiency for all visitors, which may or may not include various forms of paid parking and/or parking enforcement. The task force has completed multiple rounds of public discussions, presentations, walk & talk sessions, as well as an open online survey. After presenting the findings to City Council, the Council will consider the issue in late January or February 2025.

The City of University Park granted the construction contract to SYB following a thorough review of proposals. SYB scored the highest of all respondents. They have worked in University Park continuously for the last four years on multiple projects throughout the City limits and are a proven and trusted partner of the City.

Permitted construction hours are M-F 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., and Sat. 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The City will alert the public, tenants and property owners at least 48 hours in advance of any work that may occur outside of these hours.

No work will ever occur between the hours of 10:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.

See the coded map below  for a look at each of the six phases of the project.

A phased approach allows for the least disruption to businesses and visitors in the area. It also ensures we follow the natural flow of water, waste and storm drainage, making it easier to ensure all drainage aligns.

All barriers will be code compliant and appropriate for a mixed-retail construction project. Our main priority is always the safety of those in Snider Plaza.

Yes, cranes will be needed during Phases 3 and 4 of this project for operation on the fountain, as well as tree installation at the end of the project. The public, tenants and property owners will be notified in advance of any additional closures prior to any crane’s arrival. City leadership and SYB are making every effort to go above and beyond with safety measures related to crane activity.

In partnership with University Park Parks & Recreation, the City is removing all trees and plants in the Plaza because many are not suited for paved environments and sidewalks, and there is a high risk of damage during construction. They will be replaced with 70+ trees of more appropriate species for the new Plaza design. 

The majority of landscaping will occur at the end of the project so plant life is not damaged.

Since City Council approved the project, removal of the old fountain is required due to its age, structural degradation and unrealistic maintenance requirements. The new fountain design was selected by City Council in a process that vetted several options. When selecting the design, City Council heavily took into consideration feedback it received from the community during virtual neighborhood meetings on the construction project. The new fountain, designed by Space Between Design, is similar in appearance to the old design and features sustainable, modernized equipment and improved water use efficiency.

The safety of all individuals visiting the Plaza is the City of University Park’s top priority during construction. The City and construction contractors are implementing all safety protocols in accordance with all city and state laws.

We are committed to keeping our community informed throughout the construction process. Regular updates will be provided via the City of UP’s website, social media channels and through direct communication with our UP residents and neighbors.

Business fronts will always be accessible during business hours. Any construction that would limit access to businesses will be coordinated to occur outside of regular business hours.

Construction will happen as quickly and smoothly as possible one phase at a time, allowing for staggered and minimal disruption. Signage will be present to direct visiting foot traffic.

Tenants and property owners in Snider Plaza should ensure they are signed up to receive communications from the City of University Park. 

The City will be offering several solutions, from signage to pop-up events, that will be helpful for your customers and clients. Stay tuned for details.

Deliveries will be available in the alley. We encourage you to communicate with your delivery drivers to use the alleys for deliveries throughout construction.

If for any reason a delivery is not able to be made in the alley, we recommend your delivery driver find parking closest to the alley without impeding Plaza traffic and handcart the delivery into the alley to enter the back of your business.

Not at all! We anticipate everything running smoothly throughout the construction process.

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

The Hilltop Plaza parking garage is privately owned, meaning the City does not have the authority to require businesses or their employees to park there. However, recognizing the parking challenges during the construction project in Snider Plaza, the City is currently subsidizing parking for employees in the garage on a temporary basis.

This temporary solution costs nearly $8,000 per month, which is not sustainable in the long term. While the City is committed to finding ways to alleviate parking issues, a more permanent and cost-effective solution will need to be identified once the construction is completed.

No parking meters will be installed in Snider Plaza under this plan.

Customers will have many options including pay by text, telephone, app and web. Customers can pay using credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.

The proposed model proposes the first 15 minutes free, and $3/hour thereafter. 

Yes, parking ambassadors will be on site in Snider Plaza to assist patrons and businesses during peak times. 

No, customers will not have to download an app. Signage with QR codes and additional information will allow for easy access and does not require downloading an app. 

Parking has been an issue in Snider Plaza for decades, with over half of parking spots in the Plaza taken up by employees of the businesses in the Plaza. The City Council appointed the parking task force to study this problem and identify potential solutions, and paid parking model was the recommendation. 

Original estimates were 12-18 months. Given the exceptionally speedy progress of SYB Construction, it is now estimated 12-15 months to complete the project.

The Miracle Mile Improvements Project is set to enhance the outdated, significantly aged infrastructure in the area, as well as improve accessibility and safety for all residents and visitors. The initiative includes roadway, sidewalk, traffic signal and landscaping upgrades. These enhancements will replace underground infrastructure, improve traffic flow and traffic safety, alleviate congestion, and increase total parking spaces, ensuring a more functional and attractive area for residents and visitors alike. This project will equip Miracle Mile for a sustainable future and the next several generations to come.

In 2018, engineering firm Huitt-Zollars was hired to perform several work authorizations for studies and designs for improvement projects around the City of UP, including Miracle Mile. Throughout 2019, stakeholder meetings, public meetings, parking studies and multiple surveys for business owners, business patrons, residents and more were conducted specific to Miracle Mile improvements. After City Council approved the project in September 2019, coordination began with the City of Dallas and Dallas County, along with continued design development. Final plans were submitted in December 2024, and the construction contract with SYB Construction was approved in March 2025. Public meetings outlining construction details were held in April 2025, ahead of the project's start in May.

Since 2019, information about the project has been included in the City’s annual reports, in City Council meetings, on the City’s website and in newsletters.

Pending weather, Lovers Lane is scheduled to be repaved and open before schools start in the fall. This was a strategic decision by the City to complete the most disruptive piece of the project during the much slower summer months.

Please use the FREE public parking along Scotland Yard baseball field, as well as the 4141 gravel parking lot just beyond the baseball field on Lovers Lane. There is no time limit in these locations. The City is also attempting to collaborate with private property owners to add more temporary parking options.

Parking in front of businesses will be disrupted in a staggered method once Lovers Lane is paved and opened to traffic again (around late August). Meaning, not all parking will be affected at once. 

At the end of the project, there will be 13 more parking spaces than there were before in Miracle Mile. All parking spaces will be compliant with standards and able to fit the average vehicle.

From now until the end of August, the City has invested in a golf cart shuttle service for visitors and employees. If you park in the free public parking at Scotland Yard baseball field or in lot 4141, you can call or text 469-515-4701 and the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at your destination. You may also call the shuttle when you are ready to head back to your car.

Visitors also report using Uber or Lyft as an efficient and hassle-free way to navigate construction.

The City of UP has several methods of supporting the local businesses that make our city special. These include providing a shuttle for employees and visitors, regular email communications, hand delivered construction notices before each new phase of construction, town hall meetings, shareable videos and posts on social media, signage placement, and strategic media outreach to hyperlocal news, influencers and media personalities to keep the public informed and help spread the word that businesses remain open during construction.

While offering a tax relief is not approved for this project, the City is committed to working with businesses to alleviate what it can. This includes securing a shuttle for employees and visitors, opening public parking adjacent to the businesses, regular email communications, social media awareness, placing signage, building media awareness, and even one-on-one meetings with businesses to explore additional ways to support.

The City has placed multiple speed limit signs (15 mph) throughout the construction zone. UP Police Department will be making additional rounds in the area for safety. The City is also working on placing large digital speed monitors or flashing speed signs in the construction zone that alert drivers they are over the speed limit.

Speed bumps are not feasible for this area, as emergency vehicles must be able to pass through without speed bumps.

The contractor is performing work at night at specific times, as conditions allow, but we cannot perform all the work at night due to the adjacent residential neighborhood. It is a noise issue and quality control concern

1. Ensure you are signed up for the City’s email communications. These go out weekly, at a minimum, and provide you with the most important updates and changes you need to know about.

2. Follow the City of UP on social media. We post helpful videos and construction alerts to help businesses and customers navigate this project. Always feel free to share our posts to help spread information.

3. The City hand delivers construction notices to all businesses when it moves into a new phase of construction or has a significant adjustment that needs to be communicated.