Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2025-240 authorizing the City Manager to approve the application submittal for the TxDOT Green Ribbon Program for funding for landscape enhancements along the IH-35E Corridor TxDOT right-of-way within the City limits; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Park and Recreation Department
BACKGROUND:
The Green Ribbon Program, sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), provides funding for landscaping improvements in districts located within TxDOT right-of-way. The program aims to mitigate the effects of air pollution by installing and establishing trees, shrubs, and groundcovers along the state highway system.
Eligible landscape improvements include:
• Planting installation
• Soil preparation
• Limited irrigation activities
All improvements must be suitable for and approved by the TxDOT District. Projects must meet TxDOT design standards and incorporate appropriate safety, construction, establishment, and maintenance considerations.
The program funds the following items:
• Regionally appropriate, drought-tolerant native and adaptive plant materials
• Soil preparation to improve fertility, structure, and drainage
• Irrigation systems designed for maximum water conservation and efficiency
The program does not fund or allow:
• Engineering design fees
DISCUSSION:
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance and sustain City beautification initiatives, the Park and Recreation Department (PARD) seeks to participate in the Dallas District Green Ribbon Program for FY 2027-2030.
To support the application, the Department plans to engage consultant Kimley-Horn to prepare the required documentation, including:
• Completed application form
• Proposed location map
• Preliminary budget
• Preliminary project schedule
• LGPP registration proof
Staff is requesting City Council consideration and approval to submit the application for the Green Ribbon Program. TxDOT will provide funding for project implementation and a one-year maintenance warranty. After the warranty period, the Park Maintenance Division will assume responsibility for long-term maintenance.
The proposed project will focus on the IH-35E corridor, specifically at the intersections of:
• Valwood Parkway and IH-35E
• Valley View Lane and IH-35E-Gateway
• Valley View Lane and IH-35-Interchange
These locations fall within the IH-35E Corridor Vision Study Area, adopted by the City Council on February 2, 2021, which has been identified as a key area for landscape enhancement and gateway beautification. The application will include both intersections as priority sites for proposed improvements.
Project applications are due on Friday, December 5, but staff contacted TxDOT, and the City was provided an extension due to the change in Council meeting dates.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
N/A
DISTRICT:
Districts 1 and 3
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2025-240 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2025-240 with modifications.
3. I move to table the item for further study or take no action
Attachments:
1. Resolution No. 2025-240
2. Draft Application
3. IH-35E Corridor Study Map
4. IH-35E Corridor Vision Study
5. TxDOT Presentation on Green Ribbon Program
6. Presentation