Proxy plots next adaptive reuse project near Oak Cliff bridge park

A local developer that specializes in adaptive reuse is plotting its next project near the Dallas Zoo and planned Southern Gateway Park.

Proxy Properties wants to transform a trio of dilapidated buildings at 900 East Clarendon Drive into a vibrant mixed-use development, called East Dock, the Dallas Business Journal reported. 

The 3-acre site houses a historic ice house dating back to the 1900s, along with warehouses built in the 1920s and 1960s. Proxy Properties intends to breathe new life into these structures, encompassing about 62,000 square feet.

“We’re trying to do something that is historic and kind of an industrial design, so true to the original form,” Proxy owner A.J. Ramler told the outlet. “We’re doing some art studio concepts in there because there’s a huge art community in East Oak Cliff, and then we’re going to do some public space.”

The proposed project will cater to retail and industrial tenants, which could be yoga studios, coffee roasters, educational facilities, art studios and restaurants. Ramler envisions a unique and affordable space, with rents expected to be significantly lower than those in the Dallas Design District.

The project will not require rezoning. Proxy is exploring tax increment financing and pursuing state historic tax credits to support the endeavor, the outlet reported.

Ramler sees the influx of visitors to the Dallas Zoo, approximately 1 million annually, as a promising opportunity to attract retail tenants.

He plans to proceed with the project on a speculative basis —  without securing tenants beforehand — citing previous success with this approach. He and his team recently presented their plans to Dallas’ Urban Design Peer Review Panel for evaluation.

Proxy’s portfolio comprises about 350,000 square feet of commercial and residential space, most of which is concentrated in the Oak Cliff area.

—Quinn Donoghue 

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