Developers say by upgrading existing roadways and integrating such features as bike lanes, pedestrian pathways and improved public transport access, the project aims to create a safer and more efficient environment. (Photo courtesy Texas Trees Foundation)
The medical district is Dallas’ largest urban heat island. The trees are expected to reduce the temperature in the corridor by at least 15 degrees. An eight acre signature park will be built between the three hospitals.
Lannie McClelen, program director, Southwestern Medical District, said a survey of employees and medical students shows they need a place to unwind from the stress of their jobs, and added that the greenspace is designed to improve their overall mental health.
“We want a place to go out, to escape the walls of the building, to get out in nature and just to ‘be,'” she added.
Once the 4,000 trees are planted, the sensors will be reinstalled to determine the project’s efficacy. McClelen said they recently shared the information with planners in Australia and hope the concept will catch on in other areas.
“There’s a lot of research going on in this topic, but there’s not a lot of projects – like real live projects, that are trying to make a difference – happening. And so, that’s where this is so cutting edge,” she continued.
Construction on the project is scheduled to start in the fourth quarter of 2026.
