Dallas County and developers cut ribbon on mixed-income apartments

Dallas County, developers, and the non-profit, Catholic Housing Initiative, cut the ribbon on an apartment complex Monday that occupies the space of a former subcourthouse. "Gateway Oak Cliff" has opened near Beckley and 35E.

When the subcourthouse moved to a new location several blocks away in 2021, Dallas County leased the spot to Catholic Housing Initiative and Carleton Companies. They built an apartment complex with 230 units. Eighty percent will be designated for affordable housing; the other 20% will rent at the market rate.

For affordable housing, renters must make no more than 60% of the area's median income. County Commissioner Elba Garcia says that would be $36,000 to $40,000 a year for an individual.

"We have a golden opportunity," she says. "We can go ahead and create affordable housing. We've all seen the gentrification that has been taking place in North Oak Cliff, especially around Bishop Arts."

"This reflects a philosophical diversity," says Catholic Housing Initiative Cofounder Joe Dingman. "We didn't want it to be 100% affordable and were not interested in having it be 100% market."

Dingman says the project can provide affordable housing while also sparking more economic growth in the area.

"It's a massive housing opportunity for the community," he says.

Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins says the complex is providing affordable housing in an area that needs help as it changes quickly.

"This is a great opportunity for an affordable residence in one of the hottest areas in Dallas," he says.

Jenkins says the building is within walking distance to jobs, restaurants, "plentiful healthcare, plentiful groceries."

Dallas County still owns the three-acre site. The apartments range from studios to three-bedroom units. The developer said it was 70% leased by June.

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