Dallas Leaders Meet Again To Discuss Fair Park's Future

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Fair Park in Dallas could move another step closer to a major makeover on Monday. However, things have gotten heated during the last few Dallas City Council meetings where the park's future have been discussed. Plans for the historic area have divided many officials.

The city's landmark has been fueling calls for more transparency, and concerns over the hefty price tag put on a public-private partnership. But, after a day-long debate earlier this month, Dallas leaders gave approval to put the park's management in the hands of The Fair Park Texas Foundation at a cost of roughly $400 million over the next 20 years.

The contract would begin in January. There are also 10 years of extension options included in the plan, bringing the final total to a possible $600 million over the next 30 years.

Under the new plan, the city would retain ownership of Fair Park, and the Children's Aquarium at Fair Park would stay under the Dallas Zoo. The private foundation would be responsible for other projects, including more year-round events. Right now, the park is primarily associated with being the home of the State Fair of Texas.

One of the foundation's first jobs will be to come up with designs for a free 'signature community park' next year. City leaders will be briefed on the agreement at 1:00 p.m. on Monday. There will also be discussions about upcoming bond issues that will effect Dallas voters.