The Balch Springs Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Type A Board convened on January 22, 2025, to discuss significant infrastructure improvements funded through various grants and partnerships. The meeting highlighted a series of projects aimed at enhancing the city’s roadways and trail systems.

The board announced that approximately $13.5 million has been secured from the county and the Council of Governments (COG) for the expansion of Hickory Road. This project, currently under design, will widen the road from two lanes to three, incorporating new concrete, curbs, sidewalks, trails, street lighting, and intersection improvements. Construction is anticipated to begin around 2026 or 2027, following necessary environmental reviews.

Additionally, the board reported receiving $3.4 million for intersection improvements throughout the city, including the installation of new traffic lights at key intersections such as BeltLine and Mercury, and Hickory Tree and Peachtree, set to commence in late June. Upgrades to street lighting along the late June corridor are also planned.

A new trail project, funded by $1.6 million from Dallas County, will connect Segalville Road to various parks and schools, including Hodges Elementary. This project is also in the design phase, with plans to apply for additional grants to support construction costs.

The board further detailed funding from the Green Ribbon program, which allocated $1.5 million for the I-20 corridor and $820,000 for the I-635 corridor. An additional grant of nearly $700,000 was received for construction at I-30 and Elam. Furthermore, a $160,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will support a comprehensive safety action plan to prioritize street improvements across the city.

In total, the board reported securing over $22 million for infrastructure enhancements, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among various city departments and boards in obtaining these grants. The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to building strong partnerships for economic development and infrastructure improvement.