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Hoque Global has officially begun construction on University Hills, a large-scale mixed-use development project in Southern Dallas, following a groundbreaking ceremony Monday.
The development, located near the intersection of I-20 and Lancaster Road adjacent to the University of North Texas at Dallas campus, will be the first of its kind in the area. Hoque Global completed acquisition of the property this month.
Homebuilders DR Horton and Lennar have committed to purchasing approximately 580 lots for single-family homes and townhomes. The comprehensive development plan includes urban homes, commercial buildings, a town center, potential stadium, and green spaces throughout.
"It is a great honor to launch University Hills construction today," said Mike Hoque, CEO of Hoque Global. "Our work with the city of Dallas and the University Hills community and residents is bringing a catalytic transformation to Southern Dallas that will change its trajectory forever."
The developer has partnered with KDC to pursue build-to-suit office developments targeting companies that may want a presence near UNT Dallas or those with industrial facilities nearby needing front office space. Additionally, Hoque Global has joined forces with PegasusAblon to bring retail options, including a major grocery store, to the long-underserved area.
"We are not stopping here," Hoque added. "We are dreaming big to make University Hills the epicenter of innovation and growth with the next several phases of development in the works."
The University Hills project contrasts with Hoque Global's experience in Fort Worth, where the company won a bid to develop the Evans and Rosedale project in the city's Historic Southside but later had ties broken by the city, which has since identified another developer.
Plans for the town center include the second Hotel Local, a community-centric hotel concept under the Marriott International system that was first launched in Dubai last month. Hoque Global is also developing plans for a stadium on the property with hopes of attracting a professional sports team.
The development benefits from its proximity to the forthcoming Dallas Police Academy, approved for construction on adjacent land in 2024, which is expected to enhance security in the area.
"Today's groundbreaking for University Hills marks an important milestone for growth and investment in Dallas' Southern Sector," said Arthur Santa-Maria, vice president of Hoque Global. "We have worked diligently to plan and bring together many components for a dynamic and successful development, which would not have been possible without the tireless years' long efforts of the city and numerous community leaders."
Public sector investments have helped make the project possible, including DART's Blue Line extension into southern Dallas improving regional access and the establishment of the University of North Texas at Dallas campus adjacent to the development site.