The Loop Dallas

JLP+D was engaged by The Loop organization to assess the current conditions, opportunities, and strategic challenges facing the 50-mile trail system as it nears completion of its foundational mission. Our assignment included conducting an immersive, on-the-ground review of existing and planned trail assets; meeting with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders; and evaluating The Loop’s organizational, operational, financial, and governance positioning in relation to national best practices for urban trail and open space systems.

JLP+D summarized key findings of our reconnaissance effort and the insights surfaced through stakeholder engagement. It outlines strategic considerations regarding governance, operations and maintenance, funding and financing, equitable development, brand identity, and trail-oriented development potential. These reflections are intended to support The Loop’s leadership as it defines the next era of stewardship, coordination, and capital investment for this significant public amenity.

Building on this initial assessment, JLP+D has been contracted to undergo a next phase of work. This subsequent engagement will focus on evaluating and recommending an appropriate public-private governance model; developing an operational strategy informed by benchmarking, capacity analysis, and O&M budgeting; and conducting a comprehensive economic, fiscal, and value-capture assessment to support funding strategies and implementation planning. Together, these efforts are designed to position The Loop for long-term sustainability, enhanced community benefit, and strengthened collaboration across the public, private, and civic sectors.

JLP+D is reviewing existing policy and regulatory frameworks to identify barriers to investment and are offering practical recommendations to update zoning, incentivize redevelopment, support small business growth, and align public resources with community priorities. JLP+D is also proposing development strategies that make future development more feasible for key sites downtown. These site-specific concepts are responding to Baton Rouge’s housing and economic goals while illustrating the tools, such as incentives, partnerships, or phasing needed to bring them to life. Finally, JLP+D is identifying implementation and funding pathways to turn vision into reality. We are helping the City and its partners chart a clear course for action, identifying funding sources, responsible parties, and metrics for success, while building an adaptable framework for ongoing stewardship and implementation.