The state of Texas is investing $25 million to support a nearly $200 million transformational greening of the Harry Hines Corridor in the Southwestern Medical District, the Dallas-based Texas Trees Foundation and its coalition partners announced.
Texas Trees Foundation CEO Janette Monear said the funding “will help us turn a heat island into a healing place beyond the footprints of the buildings in which world-class care is delivered daily within.”
Rendering of the footbridge overlook that’s part of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
The funding for the pioneering streetscape and park redevelopment “ensures that Texas continues to lead with evidence-based design, research, innovation, and smart urban planning,” Monear added in a statement.
The foundation said the funding was secured during the 2025 legislative session through the leadership of State Sen. Royce West and State Rep. Rafael Anchía, with support from State Sen. Tan Parker, and State Reps. Morgan Meyer, Angie Chen Button, and others.
Dallas Innovates first wrote about the project in 2023.
Rendering of sidewalk groves that are part of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
Impact of funding and project details
The Southwestern Medical District (SWMD) Transformation Project is a $198 million public-private initiative which will revitalize more than two miles and 14 acres of aging roadway, utility, and landscape infrastructure.
“This landmark investment is more than infrastructure—it’s an affirmation of our values,” West said. “We’re safeguarding public health, championing scientific excellence, and advancing the environment through innovative improvements that are long overdue. By transforming the Harry Hines Southwestern Medical District Corridor, we’re building a future that is not only smarter and safer, but greener and more resilient—for all Texans.”
Rendering of the east park landing in the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
The foundation said the $25 million allocation will accelerate a project that’s expected to yield more than $1.6 billion in economic development, including $300 million in new state property tax revenue.
The Southwestern Medical District—home to UT Southwestern Medical Center, Parkland Hospital, and Children’s Health—serves around 3.4 million patients a year, with 42,000 employees and 45,000 daily drivers.
Rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project, viewing the hilltop lawn. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
The foundation said the transformation will include roadway reconstruction, next-generation stormwater and traffic control systems, expansive green infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly, evidence-based design guided by biophilic principles. Those principles are design strategies that incorporate elements of nature into the built environment to improve human well-being, health, and productivity.
The foundation said the enhancements will improve aesthetics, increase greenspace, boost safety, and elevate air quality, mobility, and connectivity across neighborhoods.
Enhancing air quality and quality of life
Rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project’s campus walk, plaza, and escarpment walk. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
The project addresses Dallas’ acute Urban Heat Island effect—a condition where heat-absorbing surfaces raise temperatures in built environments, increasing energy use, degrading air quality, and heightening public health risks.
By replacing asphalt and concrete with trees, native vegetation, and green space, the SWMD Transformation Project will reduce localized temperatures and transform one of the city’s hottest zones into a model of urban cooling and resilient district, the foundation said.
“The Southwestern Medical District serves millions of Texans,” Anchía said. “This investment enhances safety, air quality, and quality of life for everyone and represents a model to be replicated throughout America.”
Rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project, showing an entry grove and food trucks. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
Backed by strong public and philanthropic partnerships with the City of Dallas, Dallas County, and the North Central Texas Council of Governments, the $198 million initiative continues to gain momentum. The state of Texas’ $25 million contribution serves as “a powerful catalyst” to attract additional investment and galvanize support from both the public and philanthropic sectors, the organization said.
“The economic and health impacts of this project are undeniable,” Texas Trees Foundation Board Chair Dan Patterson said in a statement. “We’re proud to be a part of a legacy investment that serves future generations.”
Rendering of the cycling track that’s part of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
Heather Stevens, campaign philanthropic and public adviser, said the investment will have a major impact on moving the corridor project forward.
“The state’s investment and the leadership from our legislators are a game-changing affirmation of both vision and value. It validates years of thoughtful planning and helps realize a bold transformation that matches the caliber of care, research, and innovation that define the Southwestern Medical District,” Stevens said. “This is more than funding—it’s a commitment to a stronger, healthier future for all Texans who rely on this vital corridor.”
Aerial views of the project
Aerial rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
Aerial rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project along the Harry Hines Corridor in Dallas. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
Aerial rendering of the Southwestern Medical District Transformation Project, with key locations noted. [Image: Texas Trees Foundation]
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