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Staff: Loch Rail node design, sewer work and 4550 acres of commercial zoning to enable development
Summary
City staff reported phase 1 of the Loch/Lock Rail project is nearly complete, phase 2 will begin design with construction expected in summer 2026, and the plan will create roughly 4550 acres of commercial zoning; staff also summarized developer proposals, business visit metrics and a pending Rite Aid property transaction.
City staff told the Dallas Economic Development Commission that phase 1 of the Loch (Lock) Rail node is largely complete (Allendale reopened) and that phase 2 will enter design work with construction targeted for summer 2026. Staff said completion of sewer infrastructure tied to the project will enable development on roughly 45 to 50 acres of commercially zoned land and mixed-use areas.
Staff said the city has received a cost table from the rail company detailing expenses to bring track into operable condition and recommended further discussion on the rail costs at a later meeting. For the 791 project, staff said two developers submitted proposals and staff will run a scoring evaluation and provide an update at the November meeting.
On business outreach, staff reported DBI statistics showing the total number of businesses continues to climb and that more new businesses are providing contact information. Staff logged nine Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) visits and seven non-BRE visits this year, 16 small-business visits in total, and described an arranged introduction connecting the West Valley Industrial Park developer with SEDCOR and Business Oregon.
Staff said the Chamber and Visitor Center hired a part-time employee with tourism experience to expand capacity. Regarding the former Rite Aid property, staff reported an auction and transaction occurred but officials cannot publicize buyer details until bankruptcy proceedings conclude.
Staff described the Loch Rail nodes planned mix of commercial zoning, parks/open space and housing and said the city is still developing a mixed-use zone; staff will publicize details when plans are more definite and noted the city launched a short podcast and continues a monthly newsletter to improve outreach.
Commissioners asked about occupancy and reuse of older buildings; staff said a wood-products holiday-decor company is working through sprinkler and occupancy requirements and is expected to begin operations by late this year or early next year.
The commission adjourned after the staff report; staff confirmed the EDC meeting date was moved to Nov. 20 to avoid Thanksgiving week.
