Full Breakdown
Dallas Mavericks Select Former Valley View Mall Site for New Arena and Entertainment District
6/3/2026, 2:42:16 AM
Core Decision: New Arena Site Chosen
The Dallas Mavericks announced on June 1, 2026 that they have entered option agreements to purchase roughly 104 acres at the former Valley View Mall site, located near Preston Road and the LBJ Freeway in North Dallas. The agreement moves the franchise out of downtown for the first time, positioning the arena to open by July 28, 2031—the date the team’s lease at the American Airlines Center expires. The organization cited the site’s alignment with its evaluation criteria and its ability to keep the team within Dallas city limits.
Background & Context
For months, the Mavericks evaluated two primary locations: a downtown parcel encompassing Dallas City Hall and the vacant Valley View property. The downtown option was tied to a contentious debate over whether to demolish City Hall to accommodate an arena. Simultaneously, the team’s lease at the American Airlines Center, shared with the Dallas Stars, runs through 2031, prompting a deadline-driven search for a new venue. Earlier proposals for the area, such as the $85 million “Dallas Midtown” mixed-use project and the broader 450-acre Dallas International District plan, remained unrealized.
Key Figures & Groups
- Rick Welts, CEO of the Mavericks, leads the arena project.
- Patrick Dumont, team governor, co-chairs the effort.
- Mark Cuban, owner, praised the site’s accessibility.
- Eric Johnson, Dallas mayor, and Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, city manager, issued a joint statement supporting the decision.
- Beck Ventures (owner of most of the land) and Seritage Growth Properties (holds a 20-acre stake) are the primary landholders.
- Council members Cara Mendelsohn and Adam Bazaldua publicly endorsed the move.
Timeline
- 2021 – Valley View Mall closes.
- 2023 – Final demolition completed.
- 2025 – Site placed on the market.
- Early 2026 – Mavericks narrow options to City Hall and Valley View.
- June 1 2026 – Option agreements signed for 104 acres.
- 2026-2028 – Design, permitting, and financing phases.
- 2029-2031 – Construction (?30 months) targeting a July 2031 opening.
Data & Statistics
- 104 acres (?42 ha) of land.
- $50.76 million purchase of 20 acres reported by Seritage.
- 30-month construction window.
- Lease expiration: July 28, 2031.
- Previous “Dallas Midtown” mixed-use plan: $85 million, 110-acre footprint.
Why It Matters
The development is framed as an “economic catalyst” that will anchor a mixed-use district featuring a state-of-the-art arena, hotels, restaurants, retail, and public green space. Proponents argue the site’s freeway access and cleared land simplify large-scale construction compared with a dense downtown parcel. Critics warn of increased traffic and the absence of DART rail service, which could limit public-transit accessibility for event-goers.
Official Statements & Responses
The Mavericks emphasized that the Valley View location “meets most of the criteria established at the outset of our evaluation process” and reiterated their “goal to stay in the City of Dallas.” City officials praised the “continued commitment” and pledged ongoing collaboration. Mark Cuban highlighted the site’s “easy access from the tollway and 635.” Council member Adam Bazaldua called the decision “great news” for preserving the franchise within city limits.
Criticism & Opposition
Downtown advocates expressed disappointment, arguing the arena could have revitalized the City Hall area. Community members raised concerns about traffic congestion and the lack of rail connectivity, noting that DART buses are the only public-transit option near the site.
On-the-Ground Reports
Restaurant owner KaiJai Alaman (Best Thing Flopping) said the arena would provide “a good pre-game spot” and anticipated “mutual success” for local businesses.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the projected traffic impact; while the Mavericks cite “meaningful economic catalyst,” independent observers stress potential congestion without rail service. The effect on the existing Dallas Midtown project remains unclear, as no definitive coordination has been announced.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I like it. In the city. Easy access from the tollway and 635,” — Mark Cuban, owner
- “This will be a good pre-game spot. You’re right across the street from the parking lot, you know?” — KaiJai Alaman, restaurant owner
- “Mavs, welcome to Far North Dallas!” — Cara Mendelsohn, Councilmember (District 12)
- “Today, our city received great news that the Dallas Mavericks would remain in Dallas and will be relocating to the Valley View site,” — Adam Bazaldua, Councilmember
What’s Next
The Mavericks will advance design work, secure zoning approvals, and negotiate final land acquisition. Groundbreaking is anticipated within the next two years, with construction slated to begin in 2029 to meet the 2031 opening target. Parallel discussions continue regarding the Dallas Stars’ arena plans, which could further reshape the region’s sports-venue landscape.
