Neighbors, both opposing and supporting the company’s first Dallas store, had their voices heard as the private grocer addressed concerns.
DALLAS — After over a century of being a truly Texas brand, H-E-B is finally coming to Dallas.
The San Antonio-based grocery chain has been expanding rapidly in North Texas and announced plans for its first H-E-B store within Dallas city limits. The proposed store would be built on the southeast corner of Hillcrest Road and LBJ Freeway in North Dallas, across the street from the Dallas County Tax Office. H-E-B bought the 10-acre swath of land back in January.
“Since H-E-B purchased the property located at LBJ Freeway and Hillcrest Road, the company has held several neighborhood gatherings and multiple individual meetings,” the company wrote to WFAA in a statement.
One of those meetings was held Monday night, and WFAA listened in on what neighbors had to say. The most pressing concern for residents: traffic.
“We’re fans of H-E-B, and I think it’d be really nice to have a store here. But I was concerned about traffic and all the congestion it may create,” Mike Campbell, who lives near the proposed store, said.
At the meeting, company representatives eased traffic worries for some, ensuring dedicated turn lanes and other measures to prevent congestion around the store.
Still, others had concerns apart from traffic.
“I love H-E-B… but this is a really bad location for everyone concerned,” nearby resident Nell Taylor said. “The traffic is a huge concern. My biggest concern is the crime rate… I just feel like there is going to be a lot of vandalism, and it’s going to make a lot of havoc for our neighborhood.”
Jeff Olson, who has lived in the neighborhood for three years, said he’s deeply supportive of the new grocery store, noting the location would be walkable for him.
“It’s total bologna that the neighborhood is up in arms over this,” Olson said. “It’s a few baby boomers that have owned their home for a thousand years who never want anything ever to be built in this town. H-E-B should not listen to these naysayers.”
As the private grocery chain continues its campaign into North Texas, the company ensured that it will respond to neighbors’ input.
“We will continue to listen to the needs of the community and value the feedback we’ve received,” the company wrote. “H-E-B is committed to being a good neighbor, and we look forward to continuing meaningful dialogue with area residents.”